The piece of paper with passwords for an encrypted email service on ProtonMail account was found by a source that provided it to The Intercept, which reportedly verified its authenticity. Switzerland-based ProtonMail is described as the world’s largest secure email service, which appears is often being used by politicians, journalists and others who prefer that sensitive information and contact details be protected with zero-access encryption.
Social media users were quick to react to the blunder, with many wondering why a White House staffer was using a ProtonMail account:
Another user explained that it doesn’t necessarily mean that the person is engaged in criminal activities if he’s using that particular email service:
Some alluded to the Hillary Clinton email scandal…
…and to Donald Trump’s “lock her up” remarks against Clinton:
There were those who were “glad” that White House staffers used buses:
While other netizens said it was ridiculous:
At the same time, many mocked Trump’s promise to hire the “best people”…
…one of the users even found Trump’s tweet, spot on for the occasion:
It is yet unclear whether any sensitive information was compromised; McAvoy did not respond to The Intercept’s requests for comment either.