Answered By: Ash Faulkner
Last Updated: Dec 31, 2024     Views: 6

According to the USPTO website...

"A trade secret:

  • is information that has either actual or potential independent economic value by virtue of not being generally known,
  • has value to others who cannot legitimately obtain the information, and
  • is subject to reasonable efforts to maintain its secrecy. 

All three elements are required; if any element ceases to exist, then the trade secret will also cease to exist. Otherwise there is no limit on the amount of time a trade secret is protected."

The USPTO provides more information on this page. If you have further questions or would like guidance navigating USPTO resources, please reach out to the PTRC Representatives. We can be contacted by email at lib-ptrc@osu.edu.

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