A key member of Elon Musk’s government downsizing initiative, known as the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), has been linked to a notorious cybercrime gang, according to digital records reviewed by Reuters.
Edward Coristine, also known as Big Balls, previously provided network services to EGodly, a cybercriminal group that bragged about hacking government emails and cyberstalking an FBI agent.
Who is Edward Coristine?
At just 19 years old, Coristine has become one of the most well-known members of Musk’s DOGE initiative. He has gained attention not just for his work but also for his bold nickname, which even Musk has publicly praised on his social media platform, X.
However, recent investigations reveal a troubling past. Before joining DOGE, Coristine operated a company called DiamondCDN, which offered network services. Leaked records show that in 2022 and 2023, the EGodly cybercrime group used DiamondCDN’s services to protect and manage their website.
Coristine’s Alleged Ties to EGodly
EGodly, a cybercrime ring active on Telegram, has been linked to serious cyber offenses, including:
- Hacking into law enforcement emails in Latin America and Eastern Europe
- Hijacking phone numbers for fraud
- Cyberstalking and harassing an FBI agent
- Swatting—making fake emergency calls to send armed officers to targets’ homes
In a February 2023 Telegram post, EGodly thanked DiamondCDN for providing security and hosting services, further strengthening the link between Coristine and the cybercriminals. Digital records confirm that DiamondCDN’s infrastructure was used to support EGodly’s website, dataleak.fun, between October 2022 and June 2023.
No Comment from Coristine or Musk’s Team
Despite the serious allegations, Coristine has not responded to requests for comment. Likewise, Musk’s DOGE team has remained silent, failing to address whether they were aware of Coristine’s past.
Official government directories list Coristine as a “senior adviser” at both the State Department and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). This raises concerns about how someone with recent ties to cybercriminals was granted access to sensitive government networks.
Former CISA Deputy Director Raises Red Flags
Cybersecurity experts are alarmed by these revelations. Nitin Natarajan, former deputy director of CISA, described Coristine’s past activities as deeply concerning, stating:
“This isn’t ancient history. He was involved with cybercriminals just two years ago, and now he has access to government networks. That’s a major security risk.”
What Happens Next?
With no response from Musk’s team, government agencies, or Coristine himself, the full extent of his involvement with EGodly remains unclear. However, if these allegations hold, it raises serious concerns about security vetting within the U.S. government—especially under the influence of Musk’s radical downsizing agenda.
This developing story calls into question how much trust should be placed in Musk’s handpicked team and whether cybersecurity risks are being ignored in the rush to shake up the government.
Stay tuned for further updates as more details emerge.
