Threat Intelligence Driven IP Protection for Entrepreneurial SMEs

2026-01-02

arXiv.org

AI Summary

This study addresses the challenge faced by entrepreneurial small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in safeguarding high-value intellectual property (IP) amid resource constraints and escalating cybersecurity threats. Bridging threat intelligence with IP protection, the research proposes a Threat Intelligence–Driven IP Protection (TI-IPP) model grounded in dynamic capabilities theory and the knowledge-based view. The model operationalizes IP protection through four sequential phases—sensing, seizing, knowledge transfer, and organizational transformation—tailored to both closed development and open innovation contexts. By systematically integrating cybersecurity threat intelligence into SMEs’ IP protection frameworks, this work introduces a dynamic defense mechanism suited to resource-limited settings. The model’s feasibility is validated through qualitative multi-case studies, yielding an actionable IP protection strategy that lays a theoretical foundation for future empirical research and practical implementation.

Technology Category

• Data Mining & Knowledge Management: Web
• Application Domains: Internet of Things, Sensor Networks & Smart Cities
• Game Theory and Economic Paradigms: Mechanism Design

Application Category

• Security and Privacy: Large-scale security measurements
• User Modeling, Personalization and Recommendation: Attacks and countermeasures in recommendation systems
• Systems and Infrastructure for Web, Mobile and WoT: Virtualization and resource management in Web systems and infrastructures

Abstract

Entrepreneurial small to medium enterprises face significant cybersecurity challenges when developing valuable intellectual property (IP). This paper addresses the critical gap in research on how E-SMEs can protect their IP assets from cybersecurity threats through effective threat intelligence and IP protection activities. Drawing on Dynamic Capabilities and Knowledge-Based View theoretical frameworks, we propose the Threat Intelligence-driven IP Protection (TI-IPP) model. This conceptual model features to modes of operation, closed IP development and open innovation, enabling E-SMEs to adapt their IP protection and knowledge management strategies. The model incorporates four key phases: sensing opportunities and threats, seizing opportunities, knowledge transfer, and organizational transformation. By integrating cybersecurity threat intelligence with IP protection practices, E-SMEs can develop capabilities to safeguard valuable IP while maintaining competitive advantage. This research-in-progress paper outlines a qualitative research methodology using multiple case studies to validate and refine the proposed model for practical application in resource-constrained entrepreneurial environments.

Problem

• threat intelligence
• intellectual property protection
• cybersecurity threats
• entrepreneurial SMEs
• IP assets

Innovation

• Threat Intelligence
• IP Protection
• Dynamic Capabilities
• Open Innovation
• Knowledge-Based View