IP THEFT RAMIFICATIONS

While not all IP has clearly definable value, a significant proportion of the value of many
companies today rests in their IP. As such, IP theft can have a detrimental impact on a
company’s success. As the digital age blossomed, companies began turning their attention
to the value of their IP and in protecting that IP. At the same time, related IP theft and the
accompanying investigations and litigation also increased proportionately.

  In many ways, the theft of customer data, technology, or other proprietary information may be
difficult to measure because it may not have an immediate or direct impact on a company.
Unlike the theft of cash or other physical assets, IP theft, as well as the results of IP theft,
can be more difficult to see. Eventually, however, the loss of customers, the company’s
competitive position, and loss of profits can be unmistakable signs of stolen IP.

   IP is typically a source, and sometimes the key, to a company’s competitive advantage
in the marketplace, and its ultimate success. Stolen IP can be used by a company’s
competitors to equalize the playing field or gain unfair advantage, or by former employees
interested in establishing a foothold in the market through competing interests. The
impact to the IP owner can be negligible, but it can be worth hundreds of millions to
billions of dollars.                                                        

                                                                                                              BY   Aaron Philipp