Scientific information is traditionally traded freely among researchers. Why is NIST concerned about proprietary information?
When NIST accepts proprietary information, NIST assumes the legal duty not to use that information in its intramural research and publications or take any other action that would divulge the information without the express consent of the owner of the information. This duty falls directly on the NIST recipient if he/she has accepted the information. Divulging or improperly using the information without permission of the owner is a criminal violation of the Trade Secrets Act.
