.svg)
Patent trolls, also known as Non-Practicing Entities (NPEs)—target businesses, especially online retailers, by asserting patent infringement claims on widely used e-commerce technologies. Many of these claims are designed to pressure companies into paying settlements rather than fighting costly legal battles. Northern 45 helps online retailers assess, respond to, and defend against these predatory claims, ensuring businesses don’t fall victim to unnecessary payouts.
Online retailers are increasingly targeted by non practicing entities that assert broad patents over common ecommerce functionality. These claims often involve standard features such as shopping carts, checkout systems, store locator tools, shipping notifications, secure web transactions, user authentication, advertising systems, and marketplace integrations. Even when the technology is widely used or embedded in third party platforms like Amazon or Shopify, retailers can face demand letters or lawsuits seeking quick settlements. The cost of defending these claims can pressure businesses into paying, even when the allegations are weak or overly aggressive.
E-Commerce Functionalities
Some NPEs claim patents on essential online shopping features, such as shoppingcarts, checkout systems, and personalized recommendations. Example: SoverainSoftware targeted multiple e-commerce businesses over online shopping carttechnology
Shipping Notifications & Tracking
Some entities claim ownership over automated shipping notifications andtracking systems, forcing retailers into expensive settlements. Example:Shipping & Transit LLC aggressively pursued online sellers
User Authentication & Online Advertising
Patents covering basic login and advertising systems have been enforced againstonline businesses. Example: Landmark Technology has filed claims againstcompanies for common website functionalities
Store Locator Tools
Patent trolls have sued retailers for using store locator functions on theirwebsites, claiming infringement. Example: GeoTag, Inc. sued businessesfor their use of location-based search tools
Northern 45 helps businesses respond strategically to patent troll claims rather than reacting out of fear. We assess the strength of the demand, identify weaknesses in the allegations, and outline practical options before costly settlements or litigation decisions are made. By coordinating with experienced IP counsel and leveraging prior art research when appropriate, we help retailers challenge weak claims, reduce financial exposure, and implement preventative measures that lower future risk.
Claim Assessment & Settlement Strategy
We review demand letters, evaluate merit, and develop negotiation or dismissal strategies that avoid unnecessary payouts
Legal Coordination & Prior Art Leverage
We work alongside experienced IP attorneys and help identify prior art or defensive positions that strengthen your response
Risk Reduction & Coordinated Defense
We advise on preventative safeguards and, when appropriate, help connect targeted retailers to respond collectively and more effectively
We specialize in patent-related threats specifically facing online retailers
We have successfully helped businesses avoid unnecessary settlements and push back against aggressive patent trolls
Fighting a patent claim doesn’t have to be financially devastating. We help minimize exposure and protect profits
We work alongside patent attorneys, IP experts, and industry leaders to craft the best defense strategies
