SAN JOSE, Calif. -- Amid a possible takeover, AuthenTec Inc.--the world's leading provider of smart fingerprint sensors--has filed legal claims against rival Upek Inc.
The suit involves the infringement of five AuthenTec patents and trade secret misappropriation. AuthenTec is seeking an injunction against Upek as well as punitive and monetary damages by way of a jury trial.
As reported, Upek,, a supplier of biometric fingerprint devices, has launched an unsolicited bid to buy rival AuthenTec. If the deal goes through, it would create the world's leading fingerprint sensor company. These devices are used in cell phones, PCs and other products.
AuthenTec said it ''rejects the proposal on the basis of its inadequate financial terms and a lack of confidence in Upek's financial position.''