15 June 2007
On 30 August 2006, Internet Solutions (IS) obtained an Anton Piller-type order ("search-and-seizure) against Verizon SA (Pty) Limited and a former employee of IS. The order was obtained on the basis of evidence that Verizon was in possession of and was unlawfully using proprietary information of IS which IS contended Verizon had obtained unlawfully, through its former employee,and was using that proprietary information to compete unlawfully and unfairly with IS.
The search-and-seizure operation was conducted on 31 August 2006 and resulted in the discovery of in excess of one hundred and eight documents (both electronic and hard copy) many of which were IS-branded and were indisputably the exclusive property of IS. The documentation included confidential customer lists of IS, key intellectual property of IS, and other trade secrets and confidential information of IS. Shortly after the search-and-seizure operation Verizon agreed to return the misappropriated documentation to IS, and the documentation was restored to IS.
On Thursday 14 June 2007 Verizon made a settlement offer to IS, in respect of which that it would pay for, amongst other things, all IS’ legal costs to date.
IS accepted such settlement offer, having obtained the stolen documentation, and is happy that the matter has now been finally resolved.
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