Overview

• TSMC detected unauthorized access to its 2 nm development files during routine checks, leading to the dismissal of several current and former employees.
• This marks the first major corporate espionage probe brought under Taiwan’s 2022 National Security Act, which classifies advanced chipmaking as critical national technology.
• At least three suspects, two of whom are current employees, were arrested and remain in pretrial detention after raids on July 25–28.
• The next-generation 2 nm process is vital for advanced AI, supercomputing and military systems, intensifying state-level competition for semiconductor leadership.
• TSMC is enhancing its internal monitoring systems and working closely with authorities to protect its trade secrets and competitive edge.