Apple Uncovers 40+ Confidential Files in OpenAI Engineer Lawsuit: Forensic Evidence Reveals Attempted Tampering

• Apple discovered over 40 confidential engineering files and device-wiping attempts on ex-employee Chang Liu’s MacBook, raising concerns over intellectual property security.
• OpenAI denies deliberate misuse of Apple technology, attributing lingering access to Apple’s account management errors.

On September 1, 2026 (UTC), BusinessToday reported that Apple presented forensic evidence from its internal probe in the trade-secret lawsuit against OpenAI and former engineer Chang Liu. Apple’s investigation found dozens of proprietary circuit schematics for a power converter on Liu’s work-issued MacBook, alleging Liu accessed and used these files in simulations at OpenAI after leaving Apple.

Among the evidence, Apple identified software on Liu’s device matching the name of its internal engineering tool. Apple asserts that Liu tried to wipe incriminating data after the investigation began and exploited a rare authentication bug to retain access to internal files post-employment.

Investigators say Liu coordinated with another ex-Apple employee at OpenAI to “restore” devices, which Apple interprets as an attempt to erase digital evidence. Importantly, the company pointed out that more than 400 employees have moved from Apple to OpenAI, underscoring ongoing concerns over the protection of proprietary technology and trade secrets.

Reuters reports Apple is seeking a preliminary injunction at a hearing set for October 1, 2026, which would prevent OpenAI and ex-Apple employees from using or accessing Apple’s confidential information during the litigation. High-profile players, including former Apple design executive Tang Tan, are involved.

OpenAI maintains it did not deliberately misuse Apple trade secrets. In an August 3 blog post, OpenAI attributed any residual device access to Apple’s account management errors after Liu’s departure. OpenAI said Liu assisted in locating files only at the request of former colleagues, not proactively, and stressed its willingness to cooperate with Apple before the lawsuit.

This legal battle is drawing attention across the tech industry, with potential consequences for regulatory policy, employee migration between companies, corporate data protection standards, and wider intellectual property law.