Corporate Espionage 101

Information can make the difference between success and failure or profit and loss in the business world. If a trade secret is stolen, then the competitive playing field is leveled or worse, tipped in favor of the competitor.

To complicate the problem even more, trade secrets are not only being sought after by a company's competitors, but from foreign nations as well. They are hoping to use stolen corporate information to increase that nation's competitive edge in the global marketplace.

Although a lot of information gathering is accomplished by combing through public records, i.e. public databases, and patent filings; however, the best way to get the really good information is by taking it. This paper discusses the various aspects involved in the taking of corporate information.

It covers some background information on corporate espionage, who is doing the spying, how it is being done, a few real life examples, and some guidelines to follow in order to protect a business from becoming a victim.