Redactions can be removed in Epstein files via simple hacks, reports claim

Internet sleuths easily circumvented deletions made by the Justice Department in the recently released cache of files on disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein, according to the Tutor and the New York Times.

While some used Photoshop to bypass the redactions, others simply copied and pasted the redacted text into a word processing document to reveal the hidden sections, according to reports. The easily discovered redactions appeared to indicate that the files had been “hastily censored,” according to the Times.

CNN reported Tuesday that the DOJ was scrambling to find volunteers to help write the final files on Epstein. According to the report, an attorney from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida sent a district-wide email Tuesday, asking for help with an emergency request from the Assistant Attorney General’s Office. “We need [Assistant United States Attorneys] to conduct remote review of documents and redactions related to the Epstein files,” the email said, according to CNN. The request indicated that SDF needed assistance over the next few days, indicating that more files on Epstein may be released over the Christmas holiday.

Some of the redacted text discovered by Internet detectives revealed details of civil lawsuits involving Epstein, including how he and his associates sexually abused children, according to the Tutor. Payments made to young models and actresses were also described in editorials, the Tutor find.

The Epstein files were released as part of the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which requires the DOJ to disclose all unclassified documents related to Jeffrey Epstein’s investigations and associates. The agency has a microsite containing the files it has released, although it has not been updated since December 19.