Intellectual property theft and trade secret theft often go unnoticed until an employee is terminated. Suddenly a competitor introduces a new product or process that is virtually identical to yours. By performing a computer forensic investigation on any electronic devices the employee had access to, sufficient evidence can be found to prove theft of intellectual business property and and business trade secrets. This evidence can be used in court to stop the competitor’s use, prosecute the responsible party(s) and win compensatory damages.
Computer Forensic investigations help businesses uncover suspected intellectual property theft, trade secret theft and patent infringement by investigating computers, smart phones, cell phones, hard drives, servers and other data storage devices. Common types of intellectual property include copyrights, trademarks, patents, industrial design rights and trade secrets including but not limited to intangible assets like musical, literary, and artistic works; discoveries and inventions; and words, phrases, symbols, and designs.
Take these steps if you suspect theft of intellectual property by an employee:
- Identify all computers, laptops, smart phones,and external devices that may hold potential evidence.
- Secure the suspect computers and prevent further use until a forensic image can be collected.
- Begin documenting why you suspect IP theft, fraud or patent infringement.
- Contact a computer forensics company like Computer Forensics Associates and make arrangements to capture a forensically sound image so you preserve the evidence and prevent tampering or spoliation.
