what is misappropriation of trade secrets
The misappropriation of trade secrets is considered a form of unfair competition, and is discussed in the Restatement (Third) of Unfair Competition. Misappropriation of Trade Secrets as a Crime In some circumstances, misappropriation of trade secrets is not only a tort; it is a federal crime. As a result of shortcomings in the federal law and the threat of economic espionage sposored by foreign governments, Congress enacted the Economic Espionage Act of 1996 (EEA). See 18 U.S.C. Â§Â§1831-1839.