If my ideas are not protected, is it safe to discuss my ideas with others?

If you need to discuss your ideas with others, it is advisable to let them know that the idea is being shared in confidence. Wherever possible, sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement. If the idea is being shared through email, notify the receiver by stating the email to be “Confidential” in the subject line and the body of the email. If the receiver uses such information without your permission, they may be committing a breach of confidentiality.

If you share your idea orally, it could be difficult to prove that the idea or information was shared in confidence. Therefore, unless you are sure that information will not be misused, sharing ideas orally should be avoided.