FBI arrests OpenAI employee for allegedly planting recording device in company offices

Updated on: October 13, 2026 / 7:43 PM EDT / CBS News

FBI arrests OpenAI employee for allegedly planting recording device in company offices

TL;DR

  • OpenAI engineer Abdulrahman Alfozan arrested on federal charges related to planting a recording device.
  • Device was discovered hidden in a USB port in an executive conference room used for confidential discussions.
  • Investigation suggests Alfozan used company tools and a chatbot for research on installing the device.
  • OpenAI has terminated Alfozan and is cooperating with the FBI, stating no sensitive data was compromised.
  • Alfozan's attorney cautions against early conclusions and politicization of the case.