Apple Denies OpenAI Claims That Ex-Staff Member Sent Confidential Hardware Data

OpenAI filed new court documents alleging that a former employee transferred highly confidential files regarding an unreleased device to personal accounts before rejoining Apple. According to the filing, the individual worked at OpenAI for six months after departing Apple and allegedly sent more than one hundred files on June 2, 2026. These materials included detailed images, engineering data, and manufacturing specifications for the hardware project.

What data was allegedly transferred?

OpenAI states the files contained confidential information about at least one unreleased device currently under development. The allegations specify that the data included detailed images of the hardware, engineering and manufacturing data, and supplier information. Additional materials reportedly covered project files, standards for cosmetic finishes, and reports on coating and sealing hardware components. OpenAI claims this sensitive information was sent to the employee’s personal accounts on their final day at the company.

What is Apple’s response to these allegations?

Apple told Reuters that it has not found any evidence to support OpenAI’s claims. The company stated it has policies and procedures in place to ensure new employees do not use confidential information from previous employers. OpenAI, however, expressed concern that its trade secrets are now circulating inside Apple, potentially allowing engineers to shape upcoming products based on that data. OpenAI noted that Apple has not provided assurances that it is not in possession of or using the information.

How does this fit into the broader legal battle?

This development occurs within an ongoing trade secrets lawsuit filed by Apple in July. Apple accused former employees Chang Liu and Tang Tan of stealing trade secrets to benefit OpenAI. OpenAI previously described the lawsuit as careless and aggressive, stating it does not want Apple’s trade secrets. The court recently partially granted Apple’s request for expedited discovery, requiring OpenAI to hand over forensic evidence and interview materials within two weeks.

What are the immediate next steps in court?

Judge Edward Davila indicated he is highly likely to grant a preliminary injunction prohibiting OpenAI from using Apple’s allegedly stolen trade secrets. OpenAI has asked the court for permission to investigate the allegations further and pursue counterclaims if necessary. Former employees Liu, Tan, and Alyssa Peng are expected to sit for depositions after Apple receives the requested discovery materials. The legal proceedings will likely determine whether any confidential data was improperly used or transferred.

Questions to ask your suppliers

Security teams should verify that suppliers have strict data handling agreements in place for any shared confidential information. Organizations need to confirm that former employees cannot access or transfer proprietary data after leaving a partner company. Check whether suppliers conduct forensic audits when trade secret disputes arise. Ensure that legal teams are briefed on potential exposure from third-party data leaks. Review access logs for any unusual data transfers involving sensitive engineering or manufacturing files. Confirm that all partners have clear policies preventing the use of prior employer information in new projects.

What to do and how to stay safe: OpenAI

• Review data loss prevention policies to ensure confidential files cannot be sent to personal accounts by departing employees.
• Audit access logs for any unusual data transfers involving sensitive engineering or manufacturing files before employee offboarding.
• Verify that all partners have clear policies preventing the use of prior employer information in new projects.
• Confirm that legal teams are briefed on potential exposure from third-party data leaks and trade secret disputes.

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General security guidance from the TechSec Feed newsroom. It is not confirmed advice from the organisations named in this story.

Frequently asked questions

What specific files does OpenAI claim were leaked?

OpenAI alleges the files included detailed images, engineering data, manufacturing specifications, and supplier information for an unreleased device.

Has Apple admitted to receiving these files?

No, Apple told Reuters it has found no evidence to support OpenAI’s allegations and maintains policies against using prior employer data.

When did the alleged transfer occur?

OpenAI claims the files were sent on June 2, 2026, which was the employee’s final day at the company.