TSMC, which boasts the world’s most advanced 2nm semiconductor technology, has been found to have illegally obtained confidential information, raising major concerns about Taiwan’s security and the reliability of the semiconductor industry.
TSMC fires workers for breaching data rules on cutting-edge chip tech
🟦 TSMC’s 2nm technology is suspected of leaking to the outside world
It has been reported that Taiwanese semiconductor giant TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.) may have illegally taken technical information related to the next-generation 2-nanometer (nm) process outside the company. The company detected the wrongdoing and fired the former employees. Taiwanese authorities have detained three people on suspicion of violating the National Security Law and are conducting an investigation.
- Former and current employees are suspected of illegally obtaining confidential information related to 2nm development and manufacturing technology
- TSMC takes legal action as a result of internal investigation, claiming that trade secrets may be leaked
- Taiwanese prosecutors detained three people on suspicion of violating the National Security Law, and Tokyo Electron Taiwan base was also searched as a related party
🟦 Why 2nm Technology Was Targeted: Advanced Technology Becomes a National Asset
The 2nm process is a cutting-edge semiconductor manufacturing technology that is currently being successfully put into practical use by only a few companies in the world, enabling increased transistor density and improved power efficiency. TSMC aims to mass-produce it by the end of 2025, and this technology is positioned as a key national strategic asset.
In Taiwan, the National Security Law was amended in 2022 to add advanced manufacturing technologies below 14nm as “national core technologies” to the scope of protection. This case is the first case of detection since the revision of the law, and it can be said to be a touchstone for corporate espionage countermeasures.
Other major players, such as Samsung and Intel, and Japan’s Rapidus are also aiming for mass production of 2nm, intensifying competition among companies to develop technology.
🟦 Summary
TSMC’s alleged leakage of 2nm technology is a serious issue that is directly related to national security as well as the semiconductor industry. Depending on the results of future investigations, there is a possibility that Taiwan and related countries will be forced to significantly review their legal systems and technology protection systems.
Cutting-edge technology has historically been tightly controlled to protect the authority and initiative of countries and organizations. 2-nanometer semiconductor technology can be said to be the “gunpowder” of modern times.
