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TSMC tech leak in Taiwan highlights high stakes in global battle for chip supremacy

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FILE PHOTO: The logo of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) is displayed at its fabrication plant in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, June 7, 2025. REUTERS/Ann Wang/File Photo

At least two TSMC employees had been flagged for suspiciously accessing sensitive information.

PHOTO: REUTERS

Follow topic:
  • TSMC faces a probe into the alleged theft of sensitive 2nm process data, potentially harming customer trust and Taiwan's tech leadership.
  • The theft involves employees allegedly taking photos of confidential data, raising questions about possible links to Japan or China.
  • Analysts urge stronger security and legal protections in Taiwan's semiconductor industry to prevent future leaks and manage national security risks.

AI generated

An alleged trade secret leak targeting Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology’s (TSMC) most advanced technology has underscored the critical need for robust security measures in a sector where competition is fierce and the stakes are high.

The alleged theft of sensitive information related to the company’s next-generation 2-nanometre (nm) process could erode not just customer confidence but also pose risks to Taiwan’s strategic technological leadership, analysts said.

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