BitLocker is a very useful tool to protect us from unauthorized access. The problem is that in some cases Microsoft also has access to our keys.
BitLocker is basically a clever little thing that is part of the Windows software suite and makes it impossible for thieves or other unauthorized intruders to access your locally stored data. Its encryption process is quite sophisticated, so breaking it by force is complicated, almost impossible, but users have the keys if they need to access sensitive information.
Microsoft basically has no access to these keys, but they enthusiastically encourage users to upload their backups to the cloud. Of course, this puts their preservation in the hands of the company, and thus they have the opportunity to release it during a possible investigative procedure.
This is where a procedure started in February 2025 comes into play. THE Forbes reports that the FBI has begun investigating a fraud scheme linked to a pandemic unemployment benefit program. The investigation targeted Lt. Gov. Josh Tenorio and his family, and in the process, the agency seized three computers belonging to Tenorio’s sister, Charissa Tenorio. Finally, BitLocker keys were requested for these. And Microsoft gave them there.
In connection with the case, several magazines asked the tech giant for a comment, but it only responded to Forbes.
“Storage in the cloud can greatly facilitate the process of resetting keys, making it convenient to resolve potential disqualifications. However, it also carries the risk of unwanted access. In Microsoft’s view, users are in the best position to decide…how they manage their own keys.”
The representative added that they receive roughly 20 requests a year to issue BitLocker keys, but they cannot issue them because users have not saved them in the cloud.
John Hopkins University encryption expert Matthew Green shared his thoughts on the situation on Blusky. He says that while there was a time when we could still trust the FBI’s law enforcement procedures, he wouldn’t rely on BitLocker for journalists and other people working in sensitive fields these days.
