Geschäftsgeheimnisse

Geschäftsgeheimnisse, also known as trade secrets, are confidential pieces of information that provide a competitive edge to a business. This information is not generally known or readily ascertainable by others. To qualify as a business secret, the information must be valuable because it is secret, and the business must have taken reasonable steps to keep it confidential. Examples of business secrets include manufacturing processes, customer lists, marketing strategies, formulas, and technological know-how.

Protection for business secrets is primarily based on preventing unauthorized disclosure or use. Unlike patents, which grant exclusive rights for a limited period, business secrets can be protected indefinitely as long as they remain confidential and valuable. Legal recourse is typically available when a business secret is misappropriated through means such as industrial espionage, breach of contract (like non-disclosure agreements), or theft. The laws governing business secrets vary by jurisdiction, but generally aim to balance the protection of innovation with the public interest in the free flow of information. Companies invest in various security measures to safeguard their business secrets, including physical security, digital security, employee training, and contractual agreements.