A Dutch court has sentenced German Aksenov, a former engineer at leading semiconductor firms ASML and NXP, to three years in prison for stealing sensitive chip technology and illegally transferring it to a contact in Russia. The high-profile case underscores the growing risks of industrial espionage in the global semiconductor industry and the strict enforcement of European Union sanctions on technology exports to Russia.
Details of the Case
Aksenov, 43, was found guilty of computer intrusion and providing unauthorized technical assistance to Russia, in direct violation of EU sanctions implemented after 2014. The court determined that Aksenov had copied confidential files and design manuals from ASML and NXP servers, storing the documents at his residence. Investigators found evidence that he shared this information with a Russian contact, who prosecutors allege has ties to Russian intelligence services.
The prosecution initially sought a four-year sentence. However, the court imposed a three-year term, citing insufficient evidence that Aksenov received financial compensation for the stolen information.
Legal and Corporate Responses
During the trial, Aksenov denied espionage, stating he retained the documents for personal professional use. The court, however, ruled that his actions constituted a grave breach of both corporate policy and international law, regardless of intent.
ASML, a global leader in advanced chipmaking equipment, declined to comment on the case, citing ongoing litigation. NXP, another major Dutch semiconductor company, confirmed its full cooperation with authorities and reaffirmed its commitment to robust data protection and anti-fraud measures.
Aksenov was arrested in August 2023 and has remained in custody. He retains the right to appeal the verdict within 14 days.
Broader Implications
The sentencing comes at a time of heightened concern over the security of semiconductor intellectual property, particularly as Western nations tighten restrictions on technology transfers to Russia amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. ASML’s cutting-edge chipmaking technology is considered vital to global supply chains and is subject to rigorous export controls.
