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It had to happen sooner or later. Commercial laws have landed in cyberspace. Challenges from the Internet are greater than at anytime since the appearance of copy-machine. For example, online theft of trade secrets and intellectual property has become economic espionage. It is happening here, and all over the world. Quick as a click. 

Business law will continue to face new issues. Legislation is trying to keep pace with the growth, but the need for protection and enforcement of property rights will remain strong for many years to come. Over the past six or seven years, these illicit activities have caused economic losses to American business in excess of $100 billion. That’s a big problem and the water got deep in a hurry. 

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Law is the cornerstone of all business, just as ethical behavior is the foundation of our society. Ask a lawyer about these issues, and you will find there are many corrective measures in place, with more on the way. One of the most imporatant is the Economic Espionage Act (“EEA”) enacted by the United States Congress in 1996.  The Federal Government decided it was time to criminalize the theft of trade secrets, and even included foreign espionage. Here’s what the EEA says about it:

“Whoever, intending or knowing that the offense will benefit any foreign government, foreign instrumentality, or foreign agent, knowingly (1) steals, or without authorization appropriates, takes, carries away, or conceals, or by fraud, artifice, or deception obtains a trade secret; (2) without authorization copies, duplicates, sketches, draws, photographs, downloads, uploads, alters, destroys, photocopies, replicates, transmits, delivers, sends, mails, communicates, or conveys a trade secret; (3) receives, buys, or possesses a trade secret, knowing the same to have been stolen or appropriated, obtained, or converted without authorization; (4) attempts to commit any offense described  (above); or (5) conspires with one or more other persons to commit any offense described in any of the paragraphs (above),  and one or more of such persons do any act to effect the object of the conspiracy, shall…be fined not more than $500,000 or imprisoned not more that 15 years, or both.” An individual defendant may receive up to ten years in prison, plus a fine. An organization that is found guilty can be fined up to $5 million.

 AskALawyer.com may be able to save you time and money. Most situations relating to commercial law require professional advice. When something’s important, it’s best to ask a lawyer. Perhaps we can introduce you to some local resources and professionals who can help make things better for you and your family. Help is usually available. Within your budget.

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