Taiwan Investigates Former TSMC Executive for Alleged Data Theft

TAIPEI, Taiwan – Taiwan’s government is investigating Wei-Jen Lo, a retired executive from Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC), over allegations that he took sensitive company data before joining Intel Corporation in October.

The inquiry comes after local media reported that Lo, who held a senior position at TSMC, might have downloaded proprietary information relating to semiconductor technology, specifically the highly advanced 2-nanometer process. Taiwan’s High Prosecutors Office announced Tuesday that it had opened a case in light of these claims.

Lo, who worked at TSMC for 21 years before his retirement, has not responded to requests for comment. According to reports, he is now working directly under Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan.

Economy Minister Kung Ming-hsin emphasized the government’s concern about national security regarding the protection of semiconductor technologies. “The Ministry of Economic Affairs will work with prosecutors to evaluate any potential breaches of the national security law,” Kung said.

Reports suggest that Lo may have taken over 80 boxes of documents and data when he departed TSMC. The volume of information he retrieved has raised suspicions within the company, prompting the ongoing investigation.

Before his time at TSMC, Lo spent 18 years at Intel, where he served as a director of technology development. He became a key player in advancing TSMC’s technology initiatives for several manufacturing processes.

As the investigation unfolds, it could have implications for Taiwan’s crucial semiconductor industry and its relationships with international clients. TSMC is currently gearing up to produce 2-nanometer chips, anticipated as a major milestone.

While TSMC has yet to comment on the allegations, reports indicate the company is gathering evidence for potential legal action against Lo.