In a significant intellectual property breach, a former Google engineer has been indicted for siphoning off AI technology secrets to collaborate with Chinese companies.

Linwei Ding is accused of transferring confidential data to his personal cloud, a move that could lead to 40 years in prison and a $1 million fine.

The alleged theft underscores global tensions around the race for AI supremacy and the associated national security implications. This high-profile case puts the spotlight on the need for rigorous data protection protocols within the tech industry.