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ARTICLE · 01 DECEMBER 2025

Six Practical Steps For Protecting Trade Secrets (Video)

Taft, Stettinius & Hollister LLP
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Protecting trade secrets starts with preparation. Building strong systems and habits helps keep valuable information secure and limits the risk of leaks.

United StatesIntellectual Property
William Wagner
William Wagner
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Protecting trade secrets starts with preparation. Building strong systems and habits helps keep valuable information secure and limits the risk of leaks.

  1. Inventory Trade Secrets: List what information is confidential and record its value. Keeping good records helps if you ever need to prove your rights.
  2. Regular Employee Training: Teach employees how to recognize and handle trade secrets. Refresh this training regularly so protocols stay top of mind.
  3. Implement Strong Agreements: Have anyone with access sign clear contracts that set expectations during and after their time with your business. Written agreements make enforcement easier if there's ever a problem.
  4. Control the Use of AI Tools: Limit the use of confidential data in public AI tools. Use only secure, approved systems for handling private information.

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