Implement Policies and Training to Protect Your Company’s Intellectual Property

In an article on the Thomson Reuters website, Sterling Miller outlined the issues businesses face in safeguarding their intellectual property and described the policies and training programs required to protect your company’s IP.

The rise of new technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), presents challenges for IP protection. AI-generated works raise questions about authorship, originality, and ownership rights, often creating gray areas in existing IP laws. Online platforms and intermediaries present yet another challenge. Platforms hosting user-generated content often become vehicles for infringement through uploaded, pirated materials. Striking a balance between platform liability and protecting IP owners’ rights remains contentious.

Safeguarding your company’s IP requires implementing targeted policies and robust training programs. Key policies include defining and protecting trade secrets, compliance with licensing agreements, responsible social media use, and restrictions on unauthorized software downloads. Policies should also cover creating IP, using other parties’ intellectual property, and managing “bring your own device” practices. 

A comprehensive employee training program must address confidentiality, information security, data use, and proper handling of trade secrets. Training programs must also emphasize responsible use of vendor information, ensuring that employees understand legal obligations and company expectations.

Miller emphasized that businesses must adopt proactive strategies, including monitoring for infringements and leveraging technology for enforcement. Strategy innovation is vital while adapting to evolving challenges, and collaborative international frameworks and public awareness are essential to counter the increasing threats.