Microsoft Sued for Patent Infringement

Microsoft Corp., the world’s largest software company, faces a lawsuit for allegedly infringing Intertrust Technology Inc.’s patented technology to electronically deliver music, video and electronic book files.

Intertrust seeks a court order to stop Microsoft’s alleged infringement and unspecified monetary damages, according to the complaint filed Thursday in U.S. District Court in San Francisco.

The U.S. Patent Office describes the contested patent as a way to deliver computer files “from sender to recipient with a level of trustedness approaching or exceeding that provided by a personal document courier” through the use of seal images, electronic fingerprinting or other methods.

Microsoft spokesman Jim Cullinan said “it is unfortunate that Intertrust has chosen to use the courts rather than compete in the marketplace.”

Santa Clara, Calif.-based Intertrust develops computer security products. Intertrust shares fell 4 cents to close at $3.11, while Microsoft shares fell 56 cents to $69.13, both on Nasdaq.