The core behind every New Jersey business is its trade secrets. Proprietary information is what makes one business unique from another. When this information is used for the benefit of other businesses, it can result in legal issues because it can force a company out of business. Technology trade association TechAmerica is dealing with this situation after three former employees stole proprietary information to take with them to their new positions at the IT Industry Council.
TechAmerica has recently amended its lawsuit after it was able to offer more details about the extent of the wrongdoings of the three former employees. The company is asking for $5 million as well as a ban on the use of the information the trio stole and took to the rival company.
According to the complaint, the three employees took a variety of documents with them, including notes taken during conference calls, job descriptions, materials related to legislation and other internal documents. It is believed that one of the employees also downloaded membership information from a company database and erased important company data from his mobile devices.
TechAmerica claims it is suffering damages from the stolen data and is requesting a jury trial. The case will be reviewed by a judge at a Feb. 7 conference.
Anything used by a company to make it unique from a competitor is considered proprietary. This includes client information, internal documents and financial information. It can be difficult for a company to keep this information secure when an employee can steal it and use it for their own benefit. Fortunately, there are laws in place to protect companies.
Those affected by stolen business information should understand they have options to help better their situation. Seeking advice could help determine what appropriate action should be taken while also preserving their rights and interests.
Source: Federal News Radio, " TechAmerica adds more specifics to allegations against former officials, ITI," Jason Miller, Dec. 16, 2013