The vision of using 3D printers on the Moon has gained significant momentum in recent years. What seemed like a chapter from a science fiction novel not long ago is now coming within reach. Advances in additive manufacturing and successful tests of this technology in space reveal the immense potential that 3D printing holds for space exploration. However, where there are opportunities, there are also threats—especially in the realm of cybersecurity. Protecting sensitive print data and ensuring the integrity of the printing processes are crucial to realizing the vision of an autonomous Moon base supported by 3D printing.
Category: Technology- & IT-Law
Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democracy and is enshrined in Article 5 of the German Basic Law. It guarantees everyone the right to freely express and disseminate their opinions in speech, writing and images. At the same time, it includes freedom of information, freedom of the press and freedom of reporting through radio and film. However, this fundamental right is not absolute – it is limited by general laws, the protection of minors and the protection of personal honor. The balance between freedom and protection is essential for social coexistence and the rule of law.
As a lawyer, I would like to explain to interested foreign readers what freedom of expression in Germany is all about, especially after the shocking and in some cases embarrassing speech by the US Vice President JD Vance in Munich 2025.
Biotechnology ranges from traditional genetic engineering to the development of personalized medicine and synthetic biology, which modifies biological systems using a modular principle. Thanks to CRISPR-Cas9, DNA can be edited in a targeted manner, while biotechnological processes are increasingly being used in industrial production – whether for the manufacture of medicines, artificial organisms or even drugs. But where innovations sprout, there are also legal and ethical pitfalls.
Biotechnology not only opens up unimagined medical and economic opportunities, but also harbors considerable risks, particularly in the area of crime. I summarize this new dimension of criminally relevant offences under the keyword “BiotechCrime “.
Loot boxes, virtual loot boxes in video games, have attracted considerable attention in recent years. They offer players randomly generated virtual items that can range from purely cosmetic changes to game-changing advantages. The legal assessment of loot boxes is complex and concerns both gambling law and the protection of minors and consumers. This article provides a brief overview for providers and users.
Gambling has always fascinated people. However, while they are an exciting leisure activity for many, their legal framework in Germany harbors numerous risks – both for providers and participants. This article highlights the legal regulations that providers must observe and explains the potential criminal consequences for participants in illegal gambling.
A ruling by the Higher Regional Court of Frankfurt (case reference: 10 U 201/22) on December 19, 2024 dealt with a central conflict in IT services: the distinction between a contract for work and a contract for services. It concerned the development of interfaces within a larger software project and the question of whether the provider is liable for a specific success or merely for diligent action. This decision is of considerable relevance for companies as it provides guidelines for the drafting of contracts and legal protection for software projects.
Companies that want to optimize their processes, make more informed decisions or develop innovative business models are increasingly relying on AI systems. However, the technological opportunities are also accompanied by considerable legal challenges, particularly with regard to warranty law. Anyone wishing to acquire an AI system for their company or train their own neural network on platforms such as Azure or AWS should carefully examine the legal framework.
In 2025, robotics will have established itself as one of the driving forces in our society: intelligent machines are not only finding their place in industry, but also increasingly in everyday life. This development creates both opportunities and profound challenges that affect the labor market, the structure of society and the legal system. A recent article in the Handelsblatt serves as a starting point for me to write a few fresh lines on an underrated topic with considerable legal and socio-political explosiveness. Note: The article first appeared in German on my blog on robotics law!
Cyber incidents, whether caused by external attackers or internal employees, present immense challenges to companies. In addition to ensuring business continuity, the forensic analysis of such incidents is essential to minimize damage, identify perpetrators, and collect legally admissible evidence. However, IT forensics operates in a highly complex legal environment. Companies must closely align legal requirements and technical capabilities not only to close security gaps but also to prevail in potential legal disputes.
The pressing questions are: How can incidents be clarified, perpetrators identified, and all legal requirements met at the same time? IT forensics provides essential tools but is not solely a technical discipline. It requires a precise interplay of technology, law, and organizational measures. Management, in particular, is responsible for creating an environment in which IT forensic measures can be implemented effectively and in compliance with the law—ideally before an incident occurs. This article highlights the legal aspects of IT forensics, from threat analysis to securing evidence that is admissible in court.
Geographical indications are more than just a geographical label – they represent quality, tradition, and the cultural value of a product. Whether it’s Parma ham, Champagne, or Murano glass, products with protected geographical indications (GIs) hold significant meaning for consumers and producers alike. But what happens when these labels are misused or counterfeited? Such cases are not only violations of intellectual property rights but also harm consumer trust and the reputation of entire regions.