Yahoo files lawsuit against Facebook over infringement

Yahoo files lawsuit against Facebook over infringementInternet player, Yahoo has filed a lawsuit against social networking giant, Facebook for allegedly infringing upon 10 of its web-based patents.

Yahoo claims that Facebook has infringed on 10 of its patents covering areas from messaging to advertising. The lawsuit comes after the two companies failed to reach an agreement over the use of technologies. The lawsuit is also being seen as a tool for Yahoo's new CEO, Scott Thompson to aggressively compete with rivals on the Internet.

Yahoo said in the filing that all websites users need features like messaging and privacy options. It also said that, "The website owner needs revenue through functions such as advertising. All of these functions involve Yahoo!'s innovations. Without Yahoo!'s achievements, websites such as Facebook would not enjoy repeat visitors or substantial advertising revenue."

Yahoo has expressed confidence that it will win the case in the federal court. Facebook has responded by saying that it is disappointed that it is learning about the actions of a long-time partner through the press. It said that the company would vigorously fight the allegations.

Yahoo defended its decision to file the lawsuit against the company by saying tat it has the responsibility towards its stakeholders to protect its intellectual property. It said that the company has invested substantially into these innovations.