Legal pitfalls of crowdfunding campaigns

You have the next big idea and need some cash to make it happen. Crowdfunding campaigns, such as Kickstarter and IndieGoGo, can be effective ways to get a boost, offering contributors a reward in exchange for a financial contribution to the future of your business. Before you jump in, it’s important to be aware that … Read more

Landmark decision allows suits against companies for collecting biometric data

fingerprint on keyboard

In a ruling that’s expected to have widespread implications, the Illinois Supreme Court has held that consumers can sue companies for collecting biometric data, including facial scans or fingerprints, if the companies fail to disclose how the information will be used. The court unanimously said companies that gather people’s data improperly could be held liable … Read more

Companies facing web access lawsuits

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) is no longer planning to issue regulations around website accessibility. Yet businesses around the country continue to face lawsuits claiming their websites are inaccessible to blind or low-vision users. In late 2017, the DOJ announced it was rescinding its advance notices of proposed rulemaking on the issue of website … Read more

Data security and the vulnerability of the company car

By now, you’ve probably heard the horror stories about hackable cars. The most publicized concern is that digitally connected cars are vulnerable to hackers who could disable the engine or even take control of the steering.

But while this kind of physical threat grabs headlines, a different risk goes relatively unmentioned: data security. According to

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Cybersecurity essentials for small to mid-size businesses

A strong cybersecurity program is designed to protect the confidentiality, integrity and availability of a business’s information systems. These systems can include any computer or networked electronic system used by a business, and certain sensitive business and consumer information. Programs should be designed to perform three primary functions: Identify and assess threats and risks; Protect information systems … Read more

New law reaffirms right to post negative reviews online

Under a new federal law, individuals have a right to post truthful negative reviews about a product or service provider. That’s the case even if they previously signed an agreement that prohibited such reviews. Over the past few years, this controversial business practice of including non-disparagement clauses in contracts or terms of service has led … Read more

Tips for avoiding a data security breach

Regardless of the size of your business, it’s critical that you work proactively to protect the sensitive and private information of your customers, clients and employees. While you might hear more often about data breaches at bigger companies, the reality is that smaller companies and organizations are often targeted and typically have limited data security … Read more

New threats to online retailers

As more and more companies sell things online, especially to far-flung customers, it can be difficult to keep track of the ever-changing legal rules that apply. Here’s a look at just some of the issues on the horizon that online retailers should be aware of:

Is your website accessible to the disabled? You might be surprised at the idea that the federal Americans With Disabilities Act applies to online stores, but the U.S. Department of Justice has taken the position that it does, and is planning to issue rules soon for how retailers should comply.

It’s likely the government will soon require retail websites to do some or all of the following:

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