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How does answering an interview question violate/infringe any patent (valid or invalid).

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patent_infringement

states " The definition of patent infringement may vary by jurisdiction, but it typically includes using or selling the patented invention. In many countries, a use is required to be commercial (or to have a commercial purpose) to constitute patent infringement.[citation needed] "



Perhaps it could be an example of indirect (contributory) infringement if the company used his interview solution in a product (ie. he facilitated their infringement)? http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Contributory_patent_infringemen...

Pretty unlikely in this case, but I can think of interviews where I had the same concern. MegaCorp posed a problem they were having (eg. preventing radar self jamming), I told them one solution I knew of, but I was very careful to point out that it was patented less they turn around and use it.

So I share the parent's question: Can you be held liable for infringement due to a job interview answer?


Patents are not trade secrets. There's nothing illegal about communicating the contents of a patent.




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