Exploring Intellectual Property and Cybersecurity: A Journey to New York
This autumn, Professor Frederick Mostert’s International Digital IP & Cybersecurity class embarked on a field trip to New York City, immersing itself in the intricate realities of intellectual property and cybersecurity.
The excursion commenced with a stroll through Central Park, leading to the famed Metropolitan Museum of Art. Students were privileged to receive an insightful guided tour from long-time docent Sue Morris.
Following the tour, the class engaged with Rebecca Murray, the Deputy General Counsel of the Met, who illuminated her role and its multifaceted challenges, including the Italian repatriation of art and ongoing litigation involving stolen Nazi artworks currently under consideration in U.S. courts.
“Our New York trip was a reminder of why I’m drawn to intellectual property work. The Met’s General Counsel offered a fascinating look at the legal architecture behind cultural preservation,” commented 3L Lea Leisure. “It was both inspiring and grounding to see the impact of IP law in practice.”
The afternoon was spent at the National Cyber-Forensics and Training Alliance (NCFTA), where students interacted with Managing Director Jay Kramer.
They discovered the Alliance’s history and explored the pivotal public-private partnerships essential in combating contemporary cyber threats and facilitating efficient fraud intelligence sharing.
Subsequently, insights were provided by Sean Currie, NCFTA Training and Development Coordinator, and retired U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer Steve Collins.
They discussed the functions and successes of the National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center, addressing the ongoing challenges of brand protection and enforcement.
“It was an invaluable experience getting to hear from cyber experts about the most pressing digital IP and cybersecurity issues,” remarked 3L Alexandria Noble. “I am so grateful that they were able to find time in their busy schedules to meet with the class.”
The day concluded at Crowell & Moring LLP, where the students reconvened with partner Preetha Chakrabarti, a previous guest lecturer earlier in the semester. They delved into the complexities of trademark law within the landscape of online counterfeiting and piracy, all while enjoying splendid views of the city skyline.
The following day, students returned to NCFTA for a detailed briefing on the Permissive Sharing Environment. This session examined the obstacles faced in sharing cyber threat intelligence, illustrated through both historical and contemporary case studies.
Next, Alex Urbelis, General Counsel and Chief Information Security Officer for the Ethereum Name Service, addressed the class. Students gained vital insight into fraud and criminal activity within the domain name ecosystem, discussing effective strategies for detection and mitigation for clients.
Amid their rigorous itinerary, students also took time to explore the vibrant culinary scene of New York City, dining at iconic establishments including Zabar’s, John’s of Bleecker Street, and Sarabeth’s Kitchen.
They even embarked on the Staten Island Ferry to visit the celebrated Enoteca Maria, featured in the Netflix movie Nonnas.
Before returning to South Bend, students visited the historic Blue Note Jazz Club, where they reflected on their experience while enjoying live jazz music.
“Our trip underscored just how dynamic intellectual property law becomes when viewed through real-world operations,” stated Leisure.
“Hearing directly from the Met’s General Counsel about rights management and cultural stewardship, and learning from NCFTA’s Jay Kramer about private-sector partnerships to curb cybercrime, bestowed upon us a deeper appreciation for the current practical stakes of digital IP.”
Source link: Law.nd.edu.
