Press
David Ryan Interviewed in IAM on Trade Secret and AI-Related Risks
May 27, 2026
Munger, Tolles & Olson Of Counsel David Ryan was featured in an Intellectual Asset Management article titled, “Former federal prosecutor warns companies to act fast on trade secret theft risks.” The article is part of a series of interviews with leading trade secret lawyers.
Drawing on his experience as the former Chief of the National Security Division at the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California, David discussed how trade secret theft risks have evolved and how companies should respond. He highlighted the growing economic incentives driving trade secret theft, the increasing number of startups and emerging technology companies that present attractive targets, and the heightened focus by certain countries on obtaining U.S. technology.
In the interview, David emphasized that companies operating in high-value sectors — particularly artificial intelligence — face elevated risks. He noted that smaller and early-stage companies may be especially vulnerable because they often possess highly valuable technology while lacking mature security and compliance programs. David also discussed the importance of acting quickly when suspicious activity arises, including engaging experienced counsel early to assess potential misappropriation and evaluate interactions with law enforcement. He noted that early action can help prevent the misuse or export of sensitive technology and enable timely government intervention.
David further addressed AI’s role in shaping trade secret risks and disputes. “There is a global race to lead in that space, and early-stage companies in the United States are well positioned to succeed but also likely to be targeted,” David said. “The overlap between trade secret protection and export controls creates additional risk.”