The Trump administration's abrupt cuts to the US Agency for International Development (USAID) have left thousands of former employees stranded with government-issued laptops and phones, putting sensitive information at risk. Despite promises to provide shipping labels for the return of devices, many employees have been waiting for weeks, with some still having access to work accounts and email.

The situation has raised concerns about data security, as the devices could give unauthorized individuals access to personnel records, contact information, and bank details used to facilitate payments to partner organizations. Experts warn that the delay in collecting devices and revoking access is a "catch-22" that puts both former employees and the US government at risk.

USAID, which has seen 83% of its programs cut by the Trump administration, has led humanitarian missions around the world since its creation in 1961. Around two-thirds of its 10,000 employees are posted overseas, and recently terminated workers were told they would receive shipping labels to return equipment. However, many have been waiting for more than a week since their last day at work to receive the labels, leaving them responsible for keeping devices secure to protect sensitive information.

Former USAID workers are not only concerned about the security risks but also about the lack of communication from the agency. Some employees still have access to email and parts of the intranet, while others are locked out. The inconsistent access to government systems has made it difficult for employees to comply with incoming agency instructions.

Security experts believe that the Trump administration should have the ability to revoke access remotely and wipe devices clean, mitigating the risks associated with any employee losing their device or having it stolen. However, it appears that the administration has yet to take these steps.

In the meantime, experts advise former employees against using their work devices even for personal use, as they could let their employer see when they've logged into work or personal accounts, what files they've accessed, and what emails they've checked. The situation has also raised concerns about the potential for phishing scams, as partner organizations are reportedly wary of fraudulent emails claiming that canceled programs will resume and requesting bank account details to begin payments.

The State Department, which absorbed the remnants of USAID and now administers its remaining contracts, did not immediately answer questions about why there are delays in collecting workers' equipment and revoking network access. However, some former workers lost access to accounts after The Verge reached out to the State Department for comment.

The Office of the Inspector General at USAID has initiated audits at overseas offices to determine the status of USAID-funded physical assets, including equipment, vehicles, and warehoused inventory. USAID has also sent an email to staff, instructing partner organizations to submit inventory and disposal plans for program assets within 10 calendar days.

The situation highlights the chaos and disarray caused by the Trump administration's slash-and-burn approach to the US government, leaving federal agencies and employees in limbo. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the administration will address the security risks and ensure the safe return of government-issued devices.