Engineers charged with stealing Google secrets, sending data to Iran
The Hill
by Julia ShaperoFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Three former engineers have been charged in the U.S. with stealing trade secrets from Google and other tech companies and allegedly transferring sensitive information to Iran. The defendants—Samaneh Ghandali, Soroor Ghandali, and Mohammadjavad Khosravi—are accused of misusing their positions to obtain proprietary data, including source code and algorithms, while employed at major technology firms. Federal authorities allege that this information was sent to Iranian entities, raising concerns about potential national security risks.
The indictment reveals that the engineers exploited their access to internal systems to collect highly sensitive trade secrets over several years. This included data from not only Google but also other unnamed tech companies. The stolen information is alleged to have been transmitted via encrypted communications and third-party intermediaries, complicating efforts to track the full extent of the breach.
This case highlights the growing tensions between the U.S. and Iran, particularly in the realm of technology and intellectual property. It underscores concerns about economic and technological espionage, which can have significant implications for global trade and national security. The charges also raise questions about how companies protect their proprietary information and the potential vulnerabilities in international collaborations.
From a political perspective, this case serves as a reminder of the challenges posed by transnational cyber threats. It illustrates the delicate balance between fostering innovation and safeguarding intellectual property, especially in an increasingly interconnected world. The outcome of this legal case could set a precedent for how such cases are handled in the future, influencing both corporate security practices and international relations.
This incident also reflects the broader challenge of enforcing intellectual property rights in a globalized economy. As tech companies continue to innovate, they face heightened risks of data breaches and espionage. This case underscores the need for stronger international cooperation and robust cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive information from falling
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/20/2026