ThinkSecret Shuts Down, Settles Apple Lawsuit

Apple rumor site, ThinkSecret, issued a statement today indicating that they would no longer be published due to terms of a confidential settlement with Apple.

Apple and Think Secret have settled their lawsuit, reaching an agreement that results in a positive solution for both sides. As part of the confidential settlement, no sources were revealed and Think Secret will no longer be published. Nick Ciarelli, Think Secret's publisher, said "I'm pleased to have reached this amicable settlement, and will now be able to move forward with my college studies and broader journalistic pursuits."

ThinkSecret has been one of the longest running Apple rumor sites, started in 1999. Apple sued ThinkSecret in January of 2005 for "posting Apple trade secrets and encouraging and inducing persons to provide product information in breach of agreements." Today's settlement brings a close to this lawsuit.

When contacted, Nick Ciarelli was unable to provide any further details but said, "I'm very satisfied with the settlement" and wished to thank the Electronic Frontier Foundation and his attorney, Terry Gross of Gross & Belsky, for their support.