Texas Cybersecurity Litigation: University-Linked Plaintiff Files Groundbreaking Lawsuit

Skysong Innovations, the intellectual property management organization for Arizona State University (ASU), recently filed lawsuits against CrowdStrike and Fortinet in Texas courts. The complaints focus on four patents transferred to Skysong by the Arizona Board of Regents just two days prior. These patents are related to crucial cybersecurity technologies offered by both companies.

Among the inventors listed on these patents are ASU faculty and students, including Paulo Shakarian, an associate professor in Computing and AI at ASU’s Fulton Schools of Engineering. The lead inventor on one patent, Jae-Sun Seo, is affiliated with both Cornell Tech and ASU.

Skysong describes itself as a nonprofit striving to turn ASU’s innovations into real-world solutions. Its mission aligns with ASU’s charter, which emphasizes inclusivity and community impact. Founded in 2003, Skysong works closely with ASU’s faculty and researchers to bring their ideas to the marketplace.

In recent months, similar cases have emerged elsewhere; for example, Georgia Tech Research Corporation took legal action against Murata Manufacturing for patent infringement involving RF technology. This trend highlights how universities are increasingly asserting their intellectual property rights to protect innovations developed within their facilities.

Expert commentators note that such lawsuits can have significant effects on the tech landscape. They can encourage companies to invest more in research and development while ensuring that universities receive proper credit and funding for their innovations. According to a recent report by the Association of University Technology Managers, U.S. universities generated $1.3 billion from licensing revenues in 2021, showing the crucial role of intellectual property in funding research.

While Skysong’s lawsuits have yet to be assigned to judges, the actions underscore the growing importance of intellectual property as universities seek to capitalize on their research in a competitive marketplace.

For additional insights on the implications of patent law in technology, check out resources from the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

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