An Australian man in the United States has been accused of selling trade secrets to a Russian buyer for nearly $2 million. Peter Williams, who previously worked for Australia’s signals intelligence agency, is alleged to have sold eight trade secrets to a buyer in Russia between April 2022 and August 2025, according to U.S. prosecutors. The specific details of the trade secrets have not been disclosed in court documents.

Williams worked for a U.S.-based defense and cyber intelligence contractor. Reports indicate that he was employed by the Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) during the 2010s, although the exact timeline of his departure from the agency and his move to the U.S. remains unclear. It is also uncertain whether he retained an Australian government security clearance after leaving the ASD.

The ASD is responsible for cyber security and foreign signals intelligence in Australia and has the authority to conduct offensive cyber operations. The agency has not confirmed Williams's employment, stating it does not comment on individual cases. An ASD spokesperson noted, "ASD is aware of reporting regarding an Australian national," and emphasized that the agency has security measures in place to protect its personnel and information.

A government source confirmed that security agencies are aware of the allegations against Williams. However, it is not known if there is an ongoing investigation into his previous work at the ASD. Typically, former ASD officials who transition to private sector roles overseas are not allowed to keep their security clearances.

The U.S. government has initiated actions to seize Williams's assets, which include a house in Washington, D.C., savings from seven bank accounts, and luxury items such as a Louis Vuitton handbag, jewelry, and a collection of over 20 watches.

Williams reportedly served as the general manager of Trenchant, a subsidiary of defense contractor L3Harris, which focuses on developing surveillance and cyber security tools. An analyst, who requested anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the matter, explained that companies like Trenchant and L3Harris identify vulnerabilities in major online platforms to provide information to Western intelligence agencies and large commercial firms.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) in Australia acknowledged awareness of a Department of Justice investigation involving an Australian in Washington, D.C. A DFAT spokesperson stated, "We stand ready to offer consular assistance should it be requested."

It remains unclear whether Williams is currently in custody, although some reports suggest he is not detained. His case is expected to be addressed in U.S. court soon.