cyberattack disrupts ASML-tied dutch university amid chip tensions
Eindhoven, Monday, 13 January 2025.
Eindhoven University of Technology, closely associated with ASML, has halted its computer network following a cyberattack. Located near ASML’s headquarters, the university is a crucial source of talent for the semiconductor giant. The attack forced the suspension of classes, highlighting the cybersecurity vulnerabilities amid ongoing US-China tensions in the chip industry. The university’s vice president, Patrick Groothuis, stated that shutting down the network was necessary to avoid worsening outcomes. Investigations are underway to determine the extent of the breach, though no contact has been made with the attackers. The university has not yet confirmed if any data was compromised. This incident underscores the broader geopolitical challenges affecting the global semiconductor supply chain. It raises questions about the security of academic institutions involved in tech research and development. No timeline for the system’s recovery has been given yet.
Market impact and stock volatility
The cyberattack comes amid significant turbulence in the semiconductor sector. ASML’s stock has experienced a 12 percent decline since the start of January 2025 [3]. This incident adds to broader industry challenges, with major players like NVIDIA seeing a 15 percent drop in share value over the past week [3]. The semiconductor sector’s volatility reflects growing investor concerns about geopolitical tensions and their impact on global chip supply chains [3][4].
Strategic significance of the target
The targeted university holds particular strategic importance due to its role as a key talent pipeline for ASML [1][2]. Located just eight kilometers from ASML’s global headquarters, Eindhoven University of Technology has become increasingly significant in the context of US-China semiconductor competition [2]. University spokesman Ivo Jongsma confirmed that experts are investigating whether any data was compromised during the attack [2].
Broader industry concerns
The incident occurs against a backdrop of industry-wide challenges. TSMC has lowered its Q1 2025 revenue forecast by 10 percent [3]. Analysts warn that ongoing geopolitical tensions could further disrupt semiconductor supply chains [3][4]. The attack has prompted increased scrutiny of cybersecurity measures at academic institutions involved in technological research and development [4].