How can I prevent intellectual property theft?

Fighting intellectual property theft in California is not an easy thing to do. Once your IP has been stolen, it can be difficult to track who has stolen it and prove that they have done so. In addition, if it is a trade secret that has been stolen, you have already lost your protection, and the only recourse you may have is to collect damages. You will be much better off preventing the theft from ever occurring. Luckily, there are many steps that you can take to provide protection.

According to Advantage Business Technology, it is well worth it to invest in intellectual property security measures. You should have protection on every level. Take extra steps with employee training. Make them aware of the security measures that are in place and how to use them. In addition, you should make it clear that divulging any trade secrets or other proprietary information is not permitted.

It is also important for you to understand what IP you have and what it is worth. Only when this is known, can it be properly protected. Do an inventory. Make sure you consider everything, from trade secrets to copyrights to trademarks. Make sure you have taken steps to protect every single IP you have.

Finally, it can help if you approach IP protection from the viewpoint of a criminal. Thinking like someone who may want to steal the property can enable you to better see its vulnerability. This information is only intended to educate and should not be interpreted as legal advice.