The Industrial Espionage Act

The Industrial Espionage Act is a U.S. law that aims to protect trade secrets and confidential business information from theft or misappropriation. It makes it illegal for individuals or organizations to steal, buy, or possess proprietary data—like formulas, processes, or customer lists—without permission, especially when done for economic advantage or to benefit competitors. The law is used to combat corporate espionage, ensuring companies can safeguard their innovations and competitive edge without interference. Violations can lead to criminal charges, fines, and imprisonment, emphasizing the importance of respecting proprietary information in commerce.