Apple Accuses Former Employee of Stealing Data for OpenAI
Apple alleges former employee stole company data for OpenAI and destroyed evidence.
"Apple's throwing down serious accusations against OpenAI. This isn't just about data; it's about who owns the tech future."
Apple has presented what it describes as "shocking evidence" against a former employee, Chang Liu, now working at OpenAI, accusing him of stealing company data. Apple claims Liu used a confidential Apple circuit schematic and a tool sharing a name with an internal Apple engineering application in his work at OpenAI. The allegations surfaced after Liu's former Apple work laptop was provided for investigation.
Apple further alleges that OpenAI was "well-aware" of Liu's access to Apple data. The company also claims Liu, with the help of OpenAI colleague Yu-Ting Peng, destroyed evidence in June after learning of Apple's investigation. OpenAI, however, attributes Liu's continued access to Apple files to a "common issue with Apple" regarding system access management for departing employees, while Apple asserts Liu "exploited a rare, previously unknown authentication bug."
Apple is seeking a preliminary injunction to prevent OpenAI from using Apple's technology for hardware development during the ongoing case, along with expedited discovery. The company suggests more former employees might be involved, noting that over 400 former Apple employees now work at OpenAI. OpenAI has stated that Apple has only itself to blame in the trade-secret dispute.
This case highlights the critical importance of robust data security protocols and employee offboarding processes for businesses. It underscores the potential legal and reputational risks associated with intellectual property theft and the challenges of managing former employee access to sensitive information.
Relevant tools
Find the right AI tool for your business
Chat with Insta and get matched to the right tool in seconds.
Try Insta Tool Finder →