What is a trade secret misappropriation claim?

A trade secret misappropriation claim is a legal claim that someone has wrongfully taken or used a business’s trade secrets without permission. This can include a competitor gaining access to a company’s confidential information and using it to their own benefit. In Washington, trade secrets law is covered under the Washington Trade Secrets Act, which protects a person or company’s confidential information from unauthorized access and use. Trade secret misappropriation claims can include taking a company’s customer list, a manufacturer’s special formula, or a business’s confidential plans. It can also include using a company’s confidential information to obtain a competitive advantage, such as by undercutting pricing, improving a product or service, or gaining an edge in business negotiations. A company is not required to register their trade secrets to be protected, however they must take reasonable steps to keep the information secret and confidential. Businesses that believe their trade secrets have been misappropriated by another can file a trade secret misappropriation claim in court to seek damages and other relief.

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What is a trade secret misappropriation claim?

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