South Carolina Lawmaker’s Account Hacked, Prompting Cybersecurity Investigation

Columbia, S.C. — State lawmakers in South Carolina have requested an investigation by the Attorney General’s Office following a cybersecurity breach affecting the social media account of Representative Stephen Frank, a Republican representing District 20. The incident, reported earlier this week, involved the unauthorized posting of graphic videos on Rep. Frank’s X (formerly Twitter) profile.

Details of the Breach and Investigation Request

Representative Frank disclosed the hacking on his X account, prompting immediate concern among his colleagues. On March 5, a formal request was sent to the Attorney General’s Office outlining the need for a thorough review of the situation. The request specifically asks the Attorney General’s office to:

• Review the circumstances surrounding the compromise of Representative Frank’s social media account.
• Evaluate potential vulnerabilities in internet networks frequently used by members of the South Carolina General Assembly, including government-provided WiFi networks within legislative facilities.
• Provide recommendations and best practices to enhance cybersecurity protections for both individual legislators and the institution as a whole.

Concerns Over Legislative Cybersecurity

The request to the Attorney General’s Office emphasizes the broader implications of the breach, stating that it raises “serious concerns about potential unauthorized access to a legislator’s digital accounts and the broader issue of cybersecurity affecting members of the South Carolina General Assembly.” This highlights a growing awareness of the need to safeguard the digital infrastructure and accounts of state officials.

About Representative Stephen Frank

Stephen Frank has served as a member of the South Carolina House of Representatives for District 20 since November 11, 2024, with his term ending November 9, 2026. He is a Republican representing Greenville County. Born November 4, 1987, in Phoenix, Arizona, Representative Frank is an entrepreneur and has been involved in community organizations such as the Child Evangelism Fellowship Local Board.

Ongoing Situation

As of March 7, 2026, the Attorney General’s Office has not yet publicly commented on whether it will formally launch an investigation. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the increasing threat of cyberattacks and the importance of robust cybersecurity measures for all levels of government.