stealing 2nm secrets: TSMC staff accused of stealing 2nm secrets, sharing with rival Rapidus
Reverends have been concerned about corporate security in the high -risk world of semiconductor innovation.
Although the competition effect is uncertain, the situation emphasizes the increasing safety risks in semiconductor production.
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How did TSMC learn the so -called leakage?
Taiwan news sources say that the leakage of the leakage of the alleged process integration of Japanese shredding Rapidus contains “hundreds of” technical photographs.
A current TSMC employee working with a former colleague in Tokyo Electron (Tel), a supplier to both TSMC and Rapidus, is said to have sent these pictures showing important steps in the production process, according to a report of Hardware.TSMC’s internal monitoring systems. This proved that private information was shared and accessed. There is no evidence that Tel knows or includes the claim that it claims, but the connection between the two people is now an important part of the investigation, according to Tom’s hardware report.
What makes 2nm process photos so sensitive?
The process integration shows how different steps of making a semiconductor chip such as accumulation, lithography and abrasion come together to make a working chip. Chip manufacturers usually keep their designs, materials and process flows confidential, but these visual plans can show them.
For a newest node like 2nm, these details can lead to new technologies such as closed transistors or more advanced modeling methods. Such pictures will probably not be enough for another company to copy an entire process, but according to Tom’s hardware report, they can help improve the means of production or give insights about an opponent’s production capabilities.
Can this really help Rapidus?
Rapidus said that he was working with IBM to make his own 2nm class technology in 2027 to start mass production in 2027. It is important to state that the TSMC and Rapidus process circulates in different ways, which means that leaked photos may not be very useful for technical reasons.
However, in a industry where billions of dollars depend on the curve, even some information about the process of an opponent may be useful to set standards and make plans. Therefore, according to a report made by Tom’s equipment, allegations attracted great attention, even if they have not yet been proven.
The first reports said six people may be involved, but the number of new reports is closer to it. It was not clear what the leaked images show, so it is still unclear how much damage to TSMC or how much Rapidus can benefit from.
The intellectual property branch of TSMC and Taiwan’s Office of Supreme Prosecutors is still looking at it.
FAQ
What is TSMC investigating?
Hundreds of sensitive 2nm process photos to be competing with Rapidus is a possible leak.
Who is claimed to be involved?
Tokyo Electron is now employing an old staff and an existing TSMC employee.
