tech
January 23, 2026
Microsoft gave FBI a set of BitLocker encryption keys to unlock suspects' laptops: Reports
The FBI served Microsoft a warrant requesting encryption recovery keys to decrypt the hard drives of people involved in an alleged fraud case in Guam.
TL;DR
- Microsoft provided the FBI with BitLocker recovery keys for three encrypted laptops.
- BitLocker, enabled by default on many Windows computers, encrypts hard drives.
- By default, BitLocker recovery keys are stored in Microsoft's cloud.
- Law enforcement can request these keys from Microsoft to decrypt drives.
- The case involved suspects in a fraud investigation related to the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program in Guam.
- Microsoft stated it provides BitLocker recovery keys to authorities about 20 times per year.
- Experts are concerned about the privacy risks and the potential for hackers to access these keys if Microsoft's cloud is compromised.