OpenAI Used Its Own AI to Trace a Hidden Recording Device, Leading to Saudi Engineer’s Arrest

OpenAI has revealed that it used its internal models to trace a hidden recording device in an executive conference room, leading to an engineer’s arrest and a federal investigation.

OpenAI found a hidden recording device in its office

According to the U.S. Department of Justice, OpenAI discovered the device on September 30, concealed in toilet paper and plugged into a USB port behind a television. The room hosted discussions involving confidential technical, commercial, and strategic information.

The device reportedly contained a microphone and could connect to a camera. Its stored contents were encrypted, making the investigation more complicated. OpenAI said its internal AI models helped identify the device’s origin and the employee allegedly responsible for planting it. The company then referred the matter to the FBI, which arrested Abdulrahman Alfozan, a 35-year-old OpenAI engineer.

Federal authorities allege that the device was installed around September 28. Investigators also found another similar recording device in a bag containing Alfozan’s identification and wallet.

Image credit: U.S. Department of Justice

Engineer faces federal charges over alleged surveillance

Prosecutors allege that Alfozan visited the conference room despite lacking authorization to access it. Surveillance footage reportedly showed him near the room on multiple occasions and checking behind the television where the device was installed.

The FBI complaint also alleges that he used an AI productivity tool to inquire about office locations, meeting rooms, room capacities, and calendars. OpenAI reportedly found evidence suggesting he intended to install additional recording devices elsewhere in its offices.

Alfozan has been charged with using or attempting to use a device to intercept oral communications. If convicted, he could face up to five years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release.

OpenAI says sensitive data was not stolen

OpenAI confirmed that it terminated the employee and is cooperating with the ongoing investigation. The company said it had found no indication that he improperly accessed or extracted model weights, source code, or customer data.