Tencent Fires Employee Over Data Leak
Tencent has dismissed an employee for leaking sensitive company information. The incident is linked to a previously viral image showing an annual bonus of approximately 3.17 million yuan (around $430,000 USD).
Tencent, the Chinese technology giant, has fired an employee for allegedly leaking sensitive company information. The individual's actions reportedly caused significant negative impact both inside and outside the company.
The dismissal follows an incident where a screenshot circulated online, depicting a substantial year-end bonus. The image indicated that a project leader within Tencent's WXG (Weixin Services Group) received a total remuneration package of approximately 3.17 million yuan (around $430,000 USD), comprising cash and stock awards.
Speculation about a data leak arose when observers noticed an internal Tencent watermark on the screenshot. An investigation by the company reportedly confirmed that the employee had transmitted sensitive internal data to external parties. Tencent has stated that the employee has been terminated, blacklisted, and will never be rehired.
Sources indicated the employee had achieved Tencent's highest performance rating, "outstanding," twice during the year, which was a factor in the substantial bonus. The company's internal notice classifies the action as a violation of Tencent's "high-pressure line" regarding information security and disclosure of confidential data.
Tencent's anti-corruption department investigated over 70 cases of "high-pressure line" violations in 2023. More than 90 employees were dismissed, and over 20 were transferred to police authorities on suspicion of criminal activity. Additionally, over 30 external individuals were arrested in connection with these cases.