Patent trolls are non-practicing entities created for the sole purpose of targeting vulnerable start-up companies. These entities bring patent infringement suits with the expectation that the cash-strapped company will take the relatively low settlement offer as opposed to costly litigation.

The Apple-Samsung patent infringement war continues to rage on. Since 2011, 50-plus lawsuits have been filed in nearly one dozen countries, many of which remain pending. In August 2013, the U.S. International Trade Commission struck back against both parties, banning the import and sale of select Apple and Samsung smartphones and tablets in separate trials.