ASML stolen data came from chip machine repository with lithography systems details, after reported breach in China

A China-based former employee of ASML Holding – a critical cog in the global semiconductor industry – stole data from a software system that the company uses to store technical information about its machinery.

The breach occurred in a repository that includes details of the lithography systems critical to producing some of the world’s most advanced chips, said people with knowledge of the situation. It was the first glimpse at the nature of the theft disclosed earlier on Wednesday by ASML, which said a former worker in China had stolen confidential information but did not elaborate on what kind of data were taken.

The data came from a so-called product life cycle management program known as Teamcenter, said the people, who asked not to be identified because the information is not public. The tool is used internally, they said.

Teamcenter serves as a shared storehouse of technical information that allows different groups of employees to collaborate and manage their product development, according to the website of Siemens, which supplies the software. It allows for “common access to a single repository of all product-related knowledge, data and processes”, according to the website.

ASML declined to comment beyond the statement it issued earlier on Wednesday, in which the company said it did not believe the theft was material to its business. Siemens did not immediately respond to a comment.

This is the second such breach that ASML has linked to China in less than a year and comes as the US is pressuring other nations including the Netherlands to help keep China’s chip-making abilities from advancing. Tensions are already high after an alleged Chinese spy balloon hovered over US airspace before being shot down. Secretary of State Antony Blinken called off a trip to Beijing – but was considering a meeting with China’s top diplomat in Germany this week, people familiar with the matter said.

Earlier on Wednesday, China’s Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said he was not aware of ASML’s accusation that a former Chinese employee had misappropriated data.

The Dutch technology company, which makes machines needed to produce high-end chips used in everything from electric vehicles to military gear, has initiated an internal investigation and tightened security controls after discovering the most recent incident. It said on Wednesday that export controls may have been violated, exposing the company to a potential regulatory backlash.