Assessing Intel's risks, mitigating those risks, and protecting Intel's Intellectual Property (IP) are three key items that facilitate or impact Intel's continued success when working with or in restricted countries. Failure to comply with US government restrictions when working with or in these countries can result in heavy fines, loss of an export license, or imprisonment. Understanding the rules of engagement is critical in today's global economy. Which countries are restricted, what are the technology restrictions, and the consequences for non-compliance with the laws that govern working with or in those countries are discussed.

Intel faces numerous challenges when working in or with restricted countries because of cultural differences, different business practices and ethics, and weak IP laws and their enforcement. All of these challenges need to be considered to establish a solid and effective program that keeps Intel compliant with the US and international law, and yet does not impede Intel's growth and continued success in these countries.

In the last five or more years, Intel has seen an increase in the number of foreign nationals hired at Intel who have access to or contribute to Intel's IP. Foreign nationals continue to contribute to Intel's intellectual pool across many disciplines including research and development, sales and marketing, manufacturing, engineering, and software development. Maintaining regulatory compliance across Intel and driving an effective security program while growing the business is a continuous challenge.

Over the last 10-15 years, Intel has grown overseas and established a multi-faceted program that protects its IP at home and abroad. Intel has risk mitigating strategies in several areas including export and import of Intel technologies, data and network protection, data center operations, and physical security (domestic and international).

Intel constantly stress-tests its processes, procedures, and security tools while continuing to adapt to the changing business environment in an effort to stay ahead of internal business and process changes. The results of our effort have allowed Intel to develop an adequate infrastructure that secures our IP on many different levels to keep us compliant with regulatory requirements while growing our business overseas.