Allegations of Surveillance by Former OpenAI Engineer with Saudi Connections

A former OpenAI engineer, Abdulrahman Alfozan, is accused of secretly placing listening devices within the company’s facilities. Prosecutors are investigating whether his actions were intended to assist a foreign government, particularly Saudi Arabia. Documents reveal Alfozan was in communication with Saudi royalty and searched company records involving the Kingdom prior to his arrest.

Accusations and Investigation

Prosecutors disclosed that Saudi officials helped arrange international travel for Alfozan’s wife and infant son shortly after his arrest. They raised concerns about his potential access to foreign government help if released. Alfozan was frequently in contact with a Saudi royal family member, who sought to recruit him for a Saudi artificial intelligence initiative. While no direct orders from Saudi Arabia regarding his alleged surveillance were disclosed, the investigation is ongoing.

Alfozan allegedly researched and constructed an encrypted recording device capable of live listening and planted it inside OpenAI. He reportedly targeted specific meeting rooms known to host sensitive discussions, using an OpenAI tool to identify these areas. The concealed recorder discovered in a conference room was placed near a television during late September meetings that included sensitive topics.

Broader Surveillance Efforts

Further investigation revealed a second device in a bag left in a printer room. Searches of Alfozan’s home and devices uncovered similar components and photographs of other locations inside OpenAI. The investigation also found his browsing history showing interest in OpenAI’s interactions with Saudi officials.

Prosecutors documented Alfozan’s search for files titled “Saudi Gov Docs” and information about interactions with Saudi’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology. His frequent conversations with a Saudi royal highlighted both recruitment efforts and discussions about leaving OpenAI.

Flight Risk and Government Support

Prosecutors argue Alfozan poses a flight risk due to substantial foreign government support. They noted his one-way ticket from San Francisco to Riyadh and the Saudi assistance for his family’s travel arrangements. Another federal case involving a former Twitter employee who allegedly received Saudi help is cited as a precedent for this kind of support.

Alfozan, a legal permanent resident, had a significant salary and stock options at OpenAI before his dismissal. He is charged with attempting to intercept oral communications and faces detention while awaiting trial.