Photo credit: arstechnica.com
A distinguished computer scientist specializing in cryptography, privacy, and cybersecurity has suddenly vanished from public view amidst a series of alarming developments. Xiaofeng Wang, who has dedicated two decades to academic research and publishing, has had his professional profiles erased by Indiana University, where he has worked for the past 21 years. Furthermore, the FBI has conducted searches at his residences, leaving many questions unanswered.
Wang holds an impressive array of credentials. He previously served as the associate dean for research at Indiana University’s Luddy School of Informatics, Computing and Engineering, and has been recognized as a fellow by both the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers and the American Association for the Advancement of Science. His career has seen him lead research projects that garnered nearly $23 million in funding, underscoring his significant contributions to the field.
Over the years, Wang has co-authored numerous scholarly papers that encompass various subjects, including cryptography, systems security, and the safeguarding of data privacy, particularly regarding human genomic information. His expertise and insights have previously formed the basis of discussions for multiple articles.
Concerns Arise Over Unprecedented Actions
The situation surrounding Wang has escalated starkly, especially in recent weeks. His email account, phone number, and profile page on the Luddy School’s website have been discreetly removed. In parallel, Indiana University has also deleted the profile of his wife, Nianli Ma, who held a position as a Lead Systems Analyst and Programmer within the university’s Library Technologies division.
Reports from the Herald-Times in Bloomington indicate that a team of unmarked vehicles affiliated with government agencies conducted extensive searches at Wang and Ma’s Bloomington home. Agents were seen transferring multiple boxes from the property throughout the day. Additionally, WTHR reported that a second residence owned by the couple in Carmel, Indiana, was also subjected to a search. Eyewitnesses noted the presence of both a resident and a legal representative during parts of these operations.
The unexplained nature of these actions has raised significant concerns. As details remain sparse, the academic community and the public await further information regarding the reasons behind the disappearance of this respected scholar and the ongoing investigations.
Source
arstechnica.com