Microsoft gave FBI a set of BitLocker encryption keys to unlock suspects' laptops: reports

Core Insights - Microsoft provided the FBI with recovery keys to unlock encrypted data on three laptops as part of a federal investigation into fraud related to the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program in Guam [1][3] - BitLocker, the full-disk encryption technology used by modern Windows computers, allows Microsoft to access recovery keys stored in its cloud, enabling law enforcement to decrypt drives [2][4] - Microsoft receives an average of 20 requests per year from authorities for BitLocker recovery keys [4] Privacy and Security Concerns - The practice of handing recovery keys to Microsoft raises privacy risks, as highlighted by cryptography expert Matthew Green, who pointed out the potential for hackers to compromise Microsoft's cloud infrastructure and access these keys [5] - Green emphasized that Microsoft's inability to secure critical customer keys is becoming a significant concern, distinguishing it from other companies in the industry [5]