Q: I have an idea for a website/app, how do I protect it? —please see the description for the complete question. Thx!!
How do I protect my idea for a website/app? I don’t want to disclose too much about it—that’s the reason for my asking in the first place—I don’t want a copycat with more resources/startup money than me to steal my idea & make a fortune off of my concept.
The idea, without getting too specific, is basically an online marketplace where individuals & corporations can list certain things for sale online & other people can view the catalog of things and bid on them or buy them—a lot like ebay, but very specific as to what’s sold. I’m not certain if you could patent, trademark, copyright, etc. such a thing. I already purchased the domain & hosting for the website, I’d like to present my idea to potential investors, so I’m drafting a business plan, but I don’t know the best way to protect the intellectual property. This is actually a really fresh, exciting concept & I do think someone would quickly steal the idea if it wasn’t protected.
I’d appreciate any advice SOO much! Thank you!!
A: I suggest you have an attorney draft a non-disclosure agreement for you. However if you are pitching it to an investor, some may balk at the idea of signing it.
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