The loss or theft of intellectual property or trade secrets can cost millions of dollars in lost revenue and can damage a company's competitive advantage.
Preventing intellectual property (IP) theft is critical. And when an incident occurs, a quick and thoughtful response is crucial.
Inquesta works closely with clients and their legal counsel to manage and protect intellectual property, including customer data, trade secrets, trademarks and patents. We help safeguard IP against piracy, counterfeiting, gray market diversions and misappropriation by former employees, business associates and third parties.
Our IP loss and theft investigations identify the perpetrators, support litigation and bring the matters to resolution. Using our global network of investigators we conduct effective investigations across markets at different points in the supply chain.
Additionally, Inquesta is able to draw on its subject matter experts in computer forensics, security consulting and investigations to provide a unique, multi-disciplined approach to IP investigations and protection. We work with our clients to identify vulnerabilities and put in place appropriate measures before a loss occurs
Case study: Investment House Competitor Steals Customer List and Financial Data
An international wealth management firm approached us to uncover the source of damaging leaks that were harming its reputation and driving away clients. False accusations of misconduct were regularly published in a local newspaper, exacerbating the situation.
Our investigation began by securing the firm’s premises with advanced electronic surveillance countermeasures and a penetration test. These measures ruled out bugging devices or compromised servers as potential sources of the leaks. With external threats eliminated, we turned our attention to insider activity.
Through covert investigative techniques, call record analysis, and personnel record reviews, we uncovered connections between two employees—a pilot and a chauffeur—and a local newspaper. These individuals were also linked to former managers of the firm who had established a competing business. The former managers were colluding with the employees to steal internal information while disseminating distorted details to the press to damage the firm’s reputation.
Our findings allowed the client to take swift action to protect its intellectual property and trade secrets, regain customer trust, and end the leaks.
