TESLA DOCUMENTS, “TRADE SECRET”
Tata also makes parts for Tesla, industry sources say.
One folder on the World Leaks database was labelled “NV36 Chargeport Controller – North America”, a purported reference to parts used in an upgraded version of Tesla’s Model Y SUV.
Another purported Tesla 2023 document described as “TRADE SECRET” showed certain drawings for its project Highland – a publicly known internal codename for its revamped Model 3 sedan.
Tesla did not respond to requests for comment.
Rajaharia also shared a screen recording of his review of the files. It showed a search for “Apple” returned 181 files and folders, while a search for “Tesla” returned files including what appeared to be manufacturing specifications and an assembly document dated May 2025.
Some files published by World Leaks carried footers saying, “This document contains proprietary and confidential information of Apple Inc.” and “information contained herein is deemed confidential, proprietary, and a trade secret of Tesla Inc.”
The breach highlights the vulnerability of global businesses to increasingly sophisticated cyber and ransom attacks.
Among the files was a 52-page document bearing Apple’s proprietary markings purportedly detailing quality inspection standards for iPhone circuit board components.
There were also 33 files and folders for search term “Hosur” – the location of Tata‘s main iPhone assembly plant in Tamil Nadu state.
Tata informed some employees at its iPhone assembly operations last week of the data breach, said a second industry source familiar with the matter.
Tata currently accounts for roughly a third of Apple’s iPhone production in India, with Foxconn making up the rest.