Ex-Google engineers accused of helping themselves to chip security secrets

Two former Google engineers and an alleged accomplice have been federally charged for allegedly stealing and exfiltrating sensitive chip and security-related trade secrets (including processor security and cryptography) from Google and other firms. Prosecutors say the defendants transferred hundreds of internal files to third-party platforms, moved data to personal devices and external systems (allegedly including locations in Iran), and took steps to conceal their actions—such as destroying records and submitting false statements—leading to DOJ charges for conspiracy, theft of trade secrets, and obstruction of justice.