Fresh blow to Sussexes’ security as Meghan’s personal phone number leaked after joining school WhatsApp group

The Sussexes’ return to the UK has been dealt a fresh blow as the Duchess reportedly sparked security concerns after her personal mobile number was leaked from a school parents’ WhatsApp chat.

It is understood that Meghan reportedly joined the group conversation the night before her children, Archie, 7, and Lilibet, 5, were due to start their first day of school, weeks after the family’s bombshell return to the UK.

On Monday, it was reported the children had been removed from their new school believed to be in the Cotswolds, just two days after they began attending, after private security guards raised concerns about the traffic impacting the family’s security arrangements.

“The decision for the children to move school was taken following a discussion with the family’s security team about the practicalities of their current arrangements,” a rep for the couple told the outlet.

“It’s a real shame, because they absolutely adored the school, the kids and their parents,” the source said.

In a screenshot posted by The Sun on Tuesday, it emerged that Meghan had shared her personal number when she joined a group chat with other parents from the school.

In the group titled ‘Year 3’, one mum wrote: “Welcome to Meghan who has Archie joining tomo.”

A second chimed in: “Welcome!!” to which Meghan was seen to reply: “Hi moms! Thanks for the warm welcome. So happy to be a part of this community.”

Following the interaction, the conversation — which included Meghan’s phone number — was screenshotted by someone in the group and shared multiple times.

Last week, the couple was granted a security review in light of their move back to England and was asked to provide details of their everyday routines, including school runs.

It was agreed that Meghan’s security would also be reviewed, marking the first official review into her security since the couple left the monarchy in 2020.

The Duke has fought for years for the right to taxpayer-funded police protection in the UK, arguing that the risk to him has not fallen since he quit official duties.

On Sunday, Meghan offered the first glimpse of her new life in the UK, with a video montage posted on social media painting an idyllic picture of the English countryside — including a roaring fire, muddy puddles, raincoats and wellies.

The next day she shared a series of image on Instagram to mark Prince Harry’s 42nd birthday, with the post captioned: “He’s simply the best. Happy birthday, my love.”