Ex-Google Engineers Charged with Stealing Trade Secrets and Transferring to Iran
Three Iranian Nationals Indicted for Stealing Trade Secrets from Google and Other Tech Firms
A federal indictment has been unsealed against three Iranian nationals, including two former Google engineers, for allegedly stealing trade secrets related to mobile computer processors from Google and other companies, and transferring the sensitive information to unauthorized locations, including Iran.
Defendants and Charges
Samaneh Ghandali, 41, her husband Mohammadjavad Khosravi, 40, and her sister Soroor Ghandali, 32, all residents of San Jose, are accused of conspiring to steal confidential data, including processor security and cryptography information.
- The trio allegedly used their employment at Google and other tech firms to access the sensitive information and exfiltrate hundreds of files to third-party communication platforms and personal devices.
- The indictment alleges that the defendants destroyed evidence, submitted false affidavits, and manually photographed sensitive documents to conceal their actions.
Stolen Trade Secrets
The stolen trade secrets pertained to Google’s Tensor processor, a proprietary technology used in the company’s mobile devices.
Google has stated that it enhanced its safeguards and alerted law enforcement upon discovery of the incident. The company’s swift action helped to mitigate the damage and prevent further unauthorized access to its sensitive information.
Implications and Consequences
The indictment highlights the ongoing threat of insider attacks and the importance of robust security measures to protect sensitive information.
The case also underscores the risk of nation-state actors seeking to acquire sensitive technologies through illicit means.
The defendants’ alleged actions have significant implications for the tech industry, as the theft of trade secrets can have far-reaching consequences for companies and their customers.
Conclusion
The indictment is a significant development in the ongoing effort to combat the theft of sensitive technologies and protect national security.
As the case moves forward, it is likely to provide valuable insights into the tactics and techniques used by nation-state actors to acquire sensitive information.
About Author
English