Three software engineers accused of transferring sensitive U.S. technology abroad face multiple federal charges.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
Federal prosecutors have charged three software engineers with allegedly stealing proprietary technology from major U.S. companies and transferring it to unauthorized locations, including Iran, according to reporting from the New York Post.
A federal grand jury indicted Samaneh Ghandali, 41; Mohammadjavad Khosravi, 40; and Soroor Ghandali, 32, on allegations that they used their positions within the technology sector to access and remove confidential information tied to advanced computing systems.
Prosecutors allege the defendants obtained sensitive material related to processor security and cryptography, technologies widely used in consumer electronics as well as national security applications. According to the indictment, the trio “exploited their positions to steal confidential trade secrets” and transferred the information through various channels, including personal devices and third-party platforms.
Investigators said the individuals took steps to avoid detection while removing data. Authorities allege that false statements were submitted during the investigation, evidence was deleted, and images of computer screens were taken manually in an effort to bypass internal security systems.
In one instance cited in the case, prosecutors allege that Samaneh Ghandali transferred a large volume of files, including proprietary materials associated with a major technology company, to private communication platforms. After the activity was identified, she allegedly denied sharing any confidential information while continuing to access sensitive materials.
According to the indictment, the activity continued through late 2023. On the day before traveling to Iran in December of that year, Samaneh Ghandali is accused of photographing multiple images of restricted data from her husband’s work computer. Investigators allege that the material was later accessed again while she was overseas.
Federal officials described the case as involving deliberate actions to conceal the alleged activity. FBI Special Agent in Charge Sanjay Virmani said, “The alleged actions reflect a calculated betrayal of trust,” adding that the defendants took “deliberate steps to evade detection and conceal their identities.”
U.S. Attorney Craig Missakian said the charges are part of broader efforts to protect U.S. technology from unauthorized transfer. “We will vigorously prosecute individuals who steal sensitive advanced technologies to benefit countries that wish us ill,” he said.
The case has also prompted discussion about risks associated with access to sensitive research and infrastructure. Activist Lawdan Bazargan said, “The issue is risk, access, and vulnerability,” referencing concerns about how individuals connected to foreign systems may gain entry to critical networks.
All three defendants have entered not guilty pleas. If convicted, they could face up to 10 years in prison for each trade secret-related count and up to 20 years for obstruction charges.
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