About 100 million people use the business social media site LinkedIn. Could an employee’s LinkedIn contacts be considered the employer’s trade secrets? This question is pending in a lawsuit between Cellular Accessories For Less, Inc. and its former employee, David Oakes and his new competitive business, Trinitas LLC.
When Oakes left Cellular Accessories, he maintained the LinkedIn contacts accumulated during his employment. Cellular Accessories filed suit against Oakes and Trinitas, alleging that, among other things, Oakes’ LinkedIn contacts were trade secrets that he misappropriated. Oakes moved to dismiss the claim, stating that LinkedIn contacts are “viewable to any other contact he had on LinkedIn” and, therefore, do not meet the criteria of trade secrets. The court denied the motion and allowed the claim to proceed, holding that there was a question of fact as to whether or not Oakes’ LinkedIn profile was public or private.
Access the Cellular Accessories decision here. Contact Ossian Law regarding control of social media accounts or any other information technology law questions.
UPCOMING PRESENTATIONS & WORKSHOPS
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OU Incubator Growing Your Business
Tips and Tools Series
Shotwell-Gustafson Pavilion
1 Golf View Lane, Rochester, MI 48309-4401
Defining the Legal Aspects of Mobile Apps
Tues., Oct 14th, 9-10:30 a.m.
Whether you’re an app designer, provider or user, the legal aspects of mobile app features and functions are important considerations. Are mobile payment transactions secure? Does your mobile app address customer’s privacy rights? Kathy Ossian will discuss these questions, the regulatory schemes and gaps, industry guidelines and best practices in the ever-changing app landscape. To register for this free event, call (248) 648-4800 or online here.
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Ossian Law P.C. – Wednesday, October 29th 8:00-9:30 a.m.
Contentious Clauses in Software Agreements
Regardless of how software is delivered – by download or a hosted solution, certain clauses are the subject of much negotiation – limitations of liability and damages, warranties, indemnification among them. Hear both sides of these contentious clauses as well as some negotiation tips. Complimentary to Ossian Law clients; $25.00 general admission. Media passes also available. Continental breakfast is included. Space is limited. Register here today!
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OU Incubator Growing Your Business
Tips and Tools Series
Shotwell-Gustafson Pavilion
1 Golf View Lane, Rochester, MI 48309-4401
Social Media Legal Pitfalls
Wed., Nov. 12th, 9-10:30 a.m.
Use of social media can have legal consequences, both personally and professionally. Is your brand being “hijacked” on social media? Can an employee be fired because of a social media post? What does your favorite social media platform do with your personal information? Could social media be used as an alibi? Kathy Ossian will provide insight to these and other questions involving Social Media Law. To register for this free event, call (248) 648-4800
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Ossian Law P.C. – Tuesday, November 18th 8:00-9:30 a.m.
The ADA and the Internet: Are You Compliant?
The Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal law that applies to public accommodations. A number of courts have recently considered ADA compliance questions for web sites and other online activities. Kathy Ossian will analyze these decisions and how they may impact the way your organization conducts business online. Complimentary to Ossian Law clients; $25.00 general admission. Media passes also available. Continental breakfast is included. Space is limited. Register here today!
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