Trade Information
- Proprietary processes, methods, techniques, formulas, designs, inventions, and improvements
- Information used in the production, sale, or distribution of the company's products or services
- Market research, sales strategies, pricing models, and customer lists
- Business plans, financial projections, and supplier information
- Intellectual property rights, such as patents, trademarks, and copyrights
Confidential Information
- Personal data (e.g., medical records, social security numbers)
- Employee information (e.g., salaries, benefits, performance evaluations)
- Financial information (e.g., bank account balances, credit card numbers)
- Customer information (e.g., credit history, purchase history)
- Business contracts and agreements
- Communication with clients and suppliers that contain sensitive information
- Intangible information, such as the company's reputation, brand image, and customer goodwill
Distinction Between Trade and Confidential Information
While both types of information are valuable to the company, trade information is typically related to its business operations, while confidential information refers to sensitive data that needs to be protected for legal, ethical, or security reasons.
Legal Protection
Trade information can be protected through trade secret laws and non-disclosure agreements (NDAs). Confidential information is protected by privacy laws, data protection regulations, and employee confidentiality agreements.