B. Trade secret misappropriation

Sun, 03 May 2026 10:19:43 +0000

# B. Trade Secret Misappropriation: A Complete Guide to Legal Protection, Risks, and Remedies Trade secrets represent some of the most valuable intangible assets in modern businesses. From proprietary formulas and algorithms to customer lists and manufacturing processes, these confidential pieces of information provide competitors with an advantage — and when misused, can cause significant harm. Understanding trade secret misappropriation is essential for businesses, innovators, and employers aiming to protect their intellectual capital. ## What Is Trade Secret Misappropriation? Trade secret misappropriation occurs when an individual or entity unlawfully obtains, uses, or discloses a trade secret without proper authorization. Unlike patents or copyrights, trade secrets derive protection through secrecy rather than public registration, making safeguarding them critically important.