What started as a simple hiring process has turned into a case with signs of industrial espionage involving Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) and Tokyo Electron (TEL), two of the most influential names in the global semiconductor supply chain.
The incident, which emerged in recent weeks, revolves around the leak of information about TSMC’s 2-nanometer technology, considered the next frontier in high-end chip manufacturing. According to initial reports, current and former employees of TSMC and TEL may have been involved in sharing confidential data, though investigations suggest that the case might be less a classic espionage thriller and more a matter of corporate negligence and information management failures.
The spark that raised alarms occurred when a candidate for a job at TEL, a former employee of TSMC, included highly precise technical details about 2nm manufacturing processes in their resume and application materials.
Sources close to the investigation confirm this information included advanced lithography equipment parameters and process details, which could have allowed competitors to understand part of TSMC’s production flow. Since 2nm technology is not yet in commercial production and represents a key competitive advantage for the Taiwanese company, the leak was immediately viewed as a strategic threat.
TSMC is by far the global leader in contract semiconductor manufacturing, while TEL is one of the main equipment suppliers. Both companies maintain a long-standing relationship but also operate in a global ecosystem of suppliers and integrators where competition and cooperation coexist in a delicate balance.
The 2nm technology is especially sensitive because it defines the future of high-performance computing and energy efficiency, with applications ranging from artificial intelligence chips to mobile processors and supercomputers.
After discovering the inclusion of this information in the hiring process, TEL reportedly informed TSMC and Taiwanese authorities. Since then, the investigation has involved industrial security agencies and internal teams from both companies, examining devices, emails, and work records of several employees.
While there is no conclusive evidence that the information was intentionally transferred to foreign rivals—something that, in the current geopolitical context, could lead to accusations of industrial espionage with potential diplomatic implications—the incident has prompted international speculation and headlines.
Experts in intellectual property and cybersecurity note that such leaks are not always part of a deliberate plot. Often, employees underestimate the sensitivity of technical information and reuse it in job applications to demonstrate experience. However, in industries like semiconductors, the line between “professional experience” and “classified information” is extremely thin.
In this case, what could have been a personal judgment error escalated quickly due to the strategic value of the 2nm node and the existing geopolitical tensions surrounding advanced chip technology.
The incident occurs at a time when the U.S. is increasing export controls on advanced technologies to China and aims to protect its strategic allies, including Taiwan and Japan. Any incident involving the transfer of cutting-edge knowledge is scrutinized from a national security perspective.
Taiwan, aware that TSMC is its “crown jewel” technologically, enforces strict laws to prevent its innovations from falling into the hands of competitors, especially in mainland China. Japan, on its part, safeguards its equipment manufacturers like TEL, which play a crucial role in the global value chain.
The case highlights how difficult it is to protect intellectual property in an industry where innovation is inherently collaborative. TSMC and TEL, like others in the sector, work with multiple partners, suppliers, and clients, increasing the points where information could potentially leak.
In response, many semiconductor companies have enhanced their data classification protocols, restricting access to critical information even internally, and implementing mandatory training on industrial secrets for all technical staff.
Regardless of whether the investigation concludes espionage or simply negligence, the incident has already left a mark. First, it has strained relationships within and outside the supply chain. Second, it serves as a reminder that information leaks can stem not only from cyberattacks but also from internal human resources processes.
For TSMC, whose competitive edge heavily depends on faster innovation than its rivals, any technical leak is a serious threat. For TEL, the case underscores the need for more rigorous hiring procedures when dealing with candidates experienced in highly confidential projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is TSMC’s 2nm technology?
It’s the next generation of semiconductor fabrication nodes, enabling the production of smaller, more efficient, and powerful chips, with vital applications in AI and advanced computing.Why is this leak so significant?
Because the technical details of 2nm processes are extremely sensitive, and their disclosure could benefit competitors and affect TSMC’s leadership position.Has industrial espionage been confirmed?
No. There’s no conclusive evidence of intentional data transfer to rivals yet, and the investigation remains ongoing.What measures are being taken?
TSMC and TEL are working with authorities to strengthen data security, improve hiring protocols, and enhance confidential data management procedures.
Source: Digitimes