Russian-made digital forensics software made by Oxygen Forensics, widely used by US and European law enforcement and intelligence agencies, including the FBI and the US Defense Department, was revealed to be owned and controlled by Russian nationals despite claims to the contrary. The software, capable of extracting data including encrypted files from mobile phones and computers, was demonstrated by former US Secret Service agent Konstantinos 'Gus' Dimitrelos using Hunter Biden's laptop. On September 23, 2026, US DOJ charged two Oxygen Forensics executives with lying about Russian ownership. Software versions used in the US are identical to those supplied to Russian intelligence agencies like the FSB. The company had concealed Russian ownership through a Cyprus intermediary and changed hands domestically. After charges were publicized, agencies in the US, UK, and EU ceased use of the software amid security concerns. Russian activists and former employees whistle-blew on the company. The software's use in Russia extends to politically motivated prosecutions, including that of RFE/RL journalist Alsu Kurmasheva. The case raises concerns about potential backdoors or misuse, although no direct evidence of malicious code has been proven.

Russian-made digital forensics software made by Oxygen Forensics, widely used by US and European law enforcement and intelligence agencies, including the FBI and the US Defense Department, was revealed to be owned and controlled by Russian nationals despite claims to the contrary. The software, capable of extracting data including encrypted files from mobile phones and computers, was demonstrated by former US Secret Service agent Konstantinos 'Gus' Dimitrelos using Hunter Biden's laptop. On September 23, 2026, US DOJ charged two Oxygen Forensics executives with lying about Russian ownership. Software versions used in the US are identical to those supplied to Russian intelligence agencies like the FSB. The company had concealed Russian ownership through a Cyprus intermediary and changed hands domestically. After charges were publicized, agencies in the US, UK, and EU ceased use of the software amid security concerns. Russian activists and former employees whistle-blew on the company. The software's use in Russia extends to politically motivated prosecutions, including that of RFE/RL journalist Alsu Kurmasheva. The case raises concerns about potential backdoors or misuse, although no direct evidence of malicious code has been proven.