As reported by The Wall Street Journal, the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is contemplating adding economic espionage charges against Abdulrahman Alfozan, a former engineer at OpenAI. Alfozan is currently facing eavesdropping allegations for allegedly covertly installing a listening device in a restricted executive conference room at OpenAI. This particular conference room is frequently utilized for discussions on highly sensitive matters, including proprietary research, technological capabilities, and strategic decision-making processes.

Alfozan was apprehended on October 9, 2026, shortly after booking a one-way flight to Saudi Arabia. Notably, his wife and children had already departed from the US prior to his arrest. Prosecutors assert that Alfozan maintains connections with members of the Saudi royal family and express concerns that he might receive support from the Saudi government if he were to be released. A federal judge in California has rejected Alfozan's bail application, citing a significant risk of flight.

Alfozan stands accused of utilizing a device to intercept oral communications. If found guilty, he could potentially face a prison sentence of up to five years.