Former OpenAI Engineer Accused of Surveillance with Saudi Connections

Federal prosecutors have charged a former OpenAI engineer, Abdulrahman Alfozan, with secretly installing listening devices in the company’s facilities. The investigation questions whether these actions aimed to benefit a foreign government. The accusations involve Alfozan’s alleged connections with Saudi royalty and his interest in the company’s records related to Saudi Arabia.

Prosecutors disclosed that soon after Alfozan’s arrest, Saudi officials assisted in the international travel of his wife and infant son. They argue that if released, Alfozan could access aid from a foreign government. Alfozan allegedly communicated with a Saudi royal family member who aimed to recruit him for a Saudi artificial intelligence project.

The investigation indicates Alfozan researched how to build an encrypted device to capture live conversations within OpenAI. Authorities discovered a customized audio recorder hidden in a conference room used for key meetings. These meetings involved OpenAI’s leadership and government officials, raising potential national security concerns.

Further discoveries revealed similar recording devices in other areas, such as a printer room. Authorities found components and photographs suggesting other planned surveillance locations. Alfozan showed particular interest in OpenAI’s dealings with Saudi Arabia, such as business engagements and planned visits.

Alfozan maintained regular contact with a Saudi royal family member, expressing a strong interest in Saudi projects. This ongoing communication and a planned move to Saudi Arabia contribute to prosecutors’ arguments that Alfozan is a flight risk. Evidence includes one-way tickets to Riyadh and travel arrangements following his arrest.

OpenAI fired Alfozan after his arrest. At the time, he earned $385,000 yearly with a $2.2 million equity grant. Prosecutors are pursuing charges involving intercepting oral communications. They argue that Alfozan poses a significant flight risk and a potential threat to community safety.