FBI probes spy charges against ex-OpenAI engineer over Saudi contacts

The Federal Bureau of Investigation is weighing economic espionage charges against Abdulrahman Alfozan, a former engineer at OpenAI who allegedly concealed recording equipment in a restricted office area. The probe centers on whether Alfozan gathered confidential data for the Saudi government, a move that could elevate his current federal case beyond simple communication interception.

Alfozan, 35, was arrested earlier this month after OpenAI security staff discovered a small circuit board and microphone hidden behind a television. The device was located in a conference room frequently used by company executives. He currently faces a charge of unlawfully intercepting communications, a federal offense punishable by up to five years in prison.

Prosecutors say Alfozan maintained frequent WhatsApp contact with an unidentified member of the Saudi royal family during 2025 and 2026. The royal family member reportedly attempted to recruit Alfozan for a Saudi artificial intelligence initiative, writing, “Saudi needs you more then [sic] the US!” Alfozan replied, “100,” while indicating he planned to stay at OpenAI until his company shares vested. The final known message between them was sent on October 5, the same day Alfozan returned to the conference room to retrieve the device, which had already been removed by staff.

Additional scrutiny has followed Alfozan’s travel arrangements. He purchased one-way tickets to Saudi Arabia via Istanbul for himself, his wife, and their infant son. He was detained three days before the planned departure. His wife and son subsequently traveled to Qatar on business-class tickets bought by a Saudi military official. Defense attorneys described the official as the wife’s brother-in-law and stated that no military funds were used.

During an October 19 detention hearing, US Magistrate Judge Alex G. Tse questioned a letter from the Saudi Consulate in Los Angeles that offered to cover Alfozan’s entire bail bond. The judge noted the offer appeared to be a blank check designed to secure Alfozan’s release. Alfozan was denied bail after the court determined he presented a flight risk.

Attorney William Pernik stated that his client has not been informed of any additional charges. Pernik said, “We made it very clear that Mr. Alfozan will fight these charges and allegations in court, not in the press.” Alfozan’s next court appearance is scheduled for November 6.

OpenAI is currently analyzing the data captured by the recording device. The company is determining whether the incident constitutes corporate espionage or part of a state-sponsored intelligence effort, according to a person familiar with the investigation.