Eindhoven University of Technology suspends classes following cyberattack

Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), a leading Dutch institution and a vital academic partner for ASML Holding NV, has suspended all lectures and educational activities in response to a cyberattack that targeted its systems.

The attack, detected late Saturday, prompted the university to take swift action by shutting down its computer network to prevent further damage. “This was a necessary intervention to prevent worse outcomes,” said the university’s vice president Patrick Groothuis.

Located just five miles from ASML’s global headquarters, TU/e plays a significant role in the semiconductor industry. It trains talent and collaborates closely with ASML, the sole producer of advanced lithography machines critical for manufacturing high-end chips.

Cybersecurity experts are assessing the scope and impact of the breach. According to university spokesperson Ivo Jongsma, no evidence has yet confirmed that data has been stolen. “We are still determining whether any data has been compromised,” Jongsma stated, adding that the attackers’ identities remain unknown, and they have not contacted us.

The incident has temporarily paralyzed operations at the university, which is regarded as a hub for research and innovation in the technology sector. As the investigation progresses, updates on the situation are expected on Monday.

ASML, headquartered in Veldhoven, has been under increased scrutiny due to US-China semiconductor tensions. Earlier this year, the company committed approximately €84 million (Rs 720 crore) to expand TU/e’s facilities, including developing a cutting-edge clean room and advanced doctoral training programs.

The attack follows a global IT outage ASML experienced in November, which disrupted its operations and raised concerns about the security of critical infrastructure supporting the semiconductor industry.