tsmc hit by 2nm data leak: engineers indicted

2025-08-28 tsmc

Taipei, Thursday, 28 August 2025.
Three TSMC engineers face charges for allegedly leaking details about the company’s cutting-edge 2-nanometer process. The leaked information involved only a small number of photographs. Surprisingly, the exchange of data was reportedly free. Authorities are investigating motives and potential damage to TSMC’s intellectual property. The incident raises concerns about TSMC’s competitive edge in advanced chip manufacturing. The legal ramifications could set a precedent for future cases involving intellectual property theft in the semiconductor industry. The engineers face significant penalties if convicted.

indictment details

Taiwan’s High Prosecutors Office has formally indicted three TSMC engineers on charges related to the leak [1][3]. Chen Li-Ming, a former TSMC engineer who later joined Tokyo Electron (TEL), allegedly collaborated with TSMC engineers Wu Bing-Jun and Ge Yi-Ping [1]. The charges include violations of the National Security Act and Trade Secrets Law [1][3]. Chen faces a requested sentence of 14 years, while Wu and Ge face requested sentences of 9 and 7 years, respectively [3].

tsmc’s response and internal actions

TSMC has expressed zero tolerance for actions compromising trade secrets and harming company interests [4]. The company believes the investigation’s outcome ensures the protection of its valuable trade secrets and technology [4]. TSMC is committed to strengthening internal management and monitoring mechanisms [4]. The company will collaborate with law enforcement to safeguard its competitive advantages and operational stability [4]. TSMC aims to protect its core competitiveness and the interests of its employees [4].

potential impact on tsmc stock

The leak of 2-nanometer technology data introduces uncertainty for investors [1]. Dr. Chen, a semiconductor analyst, suggests that if competitors use the stolen data, TSMC’s market position could be significantly impacted [1]. The incident highlights the geopolitical risks associated with advanced semiconductor manufacturing [1]. Maintaining manufacturing capacity and market leadership is crucial for TSMC’s stock performance [1]. Investors will closely monitor TSMC’s efforts to enhance security and mitigate the damage [1].

etching machine parameter recipes

Chen Li-ming allegedly colluded with Wu Ping-chun and Ge Yi-ping to steal parameter recipes for etching machines [1]. Chen, who had moved to Tokyo Electron (TEL), sought the recipes to help TEL improve its etching machine performance [1]. The goal was to secure TEL’s qualification as a supplier of mass production machines for TSMC’s 2-nanometer process [1]. The prosecution emphasizes the severe threat to Taiwan’s semiconductor industry and international competitiveness [8].

Bronnen

2nm process tsmc security