The FBI is currently evaluating the possibility of filing economic espionage charges against Abdulrahman Alfozan, a former OpenAI engineer. Alfozan is already facing existing charges related to wiretapping, specifically for allegedly placing a recording device in a restricted conference room.
Federal investigators are examining whether Alfozan attempted to misappropriate information from OpenAI with the intent of providing it to the Saudi Arabian government. The investigation also covers potential charges regarding the theft of trade secrets, though officials noted that these additional counts may not ultimately be filed.
William Pernik, the attorney representing Alfozan, stated that he has received no formal notification from the government regarding potential new charges. He emphasized that his client intends to contest all allegations and claims in court rather than through public media channels.
The ongoing inquiry does not necessarily imply that Alfozan acted under the direct instruction of the Saudi government. Instead, investigators are exploring the possibility that he intended to collect proprietary data to sell to Saudi interests at a later date.
