Market Allocation: Definition, Impact & Antitrust

Market allocation is an agreement, and it involves businesses that compete, and its impact is on the consumer welfare. Businesses agree to divide markets and refrain from competing in each other’s designated areas. These agreements often involve dividing markets by geography, products, or customers. Antitrust laws are very important and prohibit market allocation, because this agreement reduces competition, and deprives consumers of the benefits of competitive pricing and choice.

The Unseen Hand: Unmasking Market Allocation and Why You Should Care

Ever heard of the Invisible Hand in economics? Well, today, we’re talking about its shady cousin: the Unseen Hand of market allocation. It’s not about some mystical force guiding the market to equilibrium; it’s about competitors making sneaky backroom deals to divvy up the market like a poorly cut pizza.

Think of it like this: Imagine your local pizza joints secretly agreeing that Tony’s only delivers east of Main Street, and Maria’s sticks to the west. Sounds cozy for Tony and Maria, right? But what about you, stuck craving Maria’s famous garlic knots while living on Tony’s turf? Not so fun anymore, is it?

That, my friends, is market allocation in a nutshell – and it’s a big no-no according to antitrust laws. It’s illegal, harms consumers, and generally makes the marketplace a less competitive and innovative place.

So, why should you care? Well, this blog post is your crash course on the hidden world of market allocation. We’ll dive into:

• Who’s playing this game and why.
• Who gets hurt (spoiler: it’s you, the consumer).
• And, most importantly, who’s keeping an eye on things to prevent these shenanigans.

Consider this your guide to understanding the players, the impacts, and the importance of having regulatory bodies and economic experts keeping things fair. Whether you’re a business owner, a savvy shopper, or a legal eagle, understanding these dynamics is essential.

Let’s pull back the curtain and expose the Unseen Hand for what it is!

The Masterminds: Carving Up the Pie (Illegally, of Course!)

Ever wondered how some companies seem to have a monopoly in your neighborhood, even though you know there are other businesses out there offering the same thing? Sometimes, it’s not just luck or superior service; it could be something far more sinister a secret agreement to divvy up the market like a bunch of kids splitting a pizza. These aren’t your friendly neighborhood agreements, folks. They’re illegal market allocation schemes, and they’re about as anti-competitive as it gets!

So, how do these shady deals work? Simple: competitors get together (usually behind closed doors, with whispered promises and maybe a pinky swear – though legal documents are more likely), and they agree to carve up the market. This could mean, “I’ll stick to selling widgets in the East Coast, and you keep your widget-slinging hands off my territory!” or “I’ll handle all the corporate accounts, and you focus on the mom-and-pop shops.” It’s like a playground where the bullies decide who gets to play where.

The Two Flavors of Market Allocation: Geography and Customers

There are mainly two flavors of these anti-competitive pacts:

• Geographic Allocation: Imagine two landscaping companies. Instead of battling it out to give you the best lawn on the block, they decide that one will service only the north side of town, and the other will stick to the south. Poof! No more competition if you are living on the north!
• Customer Allocation: Picture two printing companies. They could agree that one handles all the real estate agencies while the other takes care of all the restaurants. So if you are a lawyer and want to get a good printing deal, well you are out of luck.

Real-World Sneakiness (Without Naming Names)

Let’s keep it vague to avoid any legal entanglements, but imagine a scenario where two manufacturers of specialized parts agreed that one would only bid on projects in the northern part of the state, while the other focused on the south. The result? Higher prices for customers in both regions because neither company had to worry about being undercut by the other.

Or consider a case where two cleaning service companies decided that one would only solicit contracts from hospitals, while the other would stick to office buildings. Again, less competition means hospitals and office buildings alike are stuck paying potentially inflated prices, with less incentive for quality service.

The Consumer’s Curse: How Less Competition Hurts Your Wallet (and More!)

The bottom line is that market allocation is terrible for consumers. When companies don’t have to compete, they can get away with:

• Inflating prices: Why offer a discount when you know you’re the only game in town (or the only one targeting your specific type of customer)?
• Reducing Quality: Why bother improving your product or service when customers have nowhere else to go?
• Limiting Choices: You’re stuck with whatever those companies offer, whether you like it or not.

Basically, it’s like being forced to buy the gas station’s over priced, day old sandwiches when you are really craving a fresh banh mi sandwich from a shop with 5 star reviews. No competition, no delicious banh mi! It’s a sad state of affairs, but that is why market allocation is illegal. It hurts consumers like you and me by taking away choices, raising prices, and stifling innovation. So, the next time you see something that seems fishy in the marketplace, remember that healthy competition is what keeps businesses honest and gives you the best deal!

The Victims: How Market Allocation Hurts Customers

Let’s talk about who really gets the short end of the stick when companies decide to play dirty with market allocation. It’s not just some abstract economic concept; it’s real people and businesses feeling the pinch. Think of it like this: imagine you’re trying to decide between two pizza places, but surprise! – they secretly agreed to never compete with each other. Suddenly, your options – and your chances of getting a good deal – just went poof! That’s market allocation in action.

Limited Choice: One Flavor Fits All (Whether You Like It or Not)

The most obvious consequence is limited choice. When companies divvy up territories or customers, they’re essentially removing competition. Imagine a scenario where only one internet provider operates in your area because they made a pact with others to stay out. You’re stuck with whatever they offer, whether it’s slow speeds, lousy customer service, or both. Nobody wins when companies stop vying for your business.

Higher Prices: Kiss Those Savings Goodbye

Less competition always translates to higher prices. Think of gas stations on opposite corners. They’re always trying to undercut each other by a cent or two, right? Now, imagine those gas stations get together and say, “Hey, let’s just both charge top dollar.” You’d be stuck paying more at the pump because there’s no incentive for them to lower prices. Without the threat of losing customers to a cheaper competitor, companies can inflate prices without a second thought.

Lower Quality: Why Bother Trying?

It’s not just about the money; it’s about the quality of goods and services too. When companies don’t have to fight for your business, they might become complacent. Why invest in better products, faster service, or more innovative solutions when customers have nowhere else to go? You might find yourself stuck with buggy software, shoddy workmanship, or just plain mediocre service. Because where else are you going to go?

The Ripple Effect: Individuals vs. Businesses

The impact of market allocation varies slightly depending on whether you’re an individual consumer or a business.

• Individual consumers feel the effects directly in their wallets, paying more for everyday goods like groceries, gas, and utilities. They also might encounter fewer choices in the goods or service they choose. It’s like being forced to buy generic everything, all the time.

• Businesses, on the other hand, might face increased input costs. For example, if suppliers agree to allocate customers, a manufacturer might be forced to pay higher prices for raw materials, squeezing their profit margins. This, in turn, can stifle innovation and growth.

In both cases, market allocation stifles the engine of competition that drives a healthy economy. It’s like putting a roadblock on the highway of progress, leaving everyone stuck in the slow lane.

The Human Element: Roles and Risks of Corporate Executives and Employees

So, we’ve talked about the nitty-gritty of market allocation and how it messes things up for consumers, but let’s zoom in on the real folks pulling the strings – or, you know, getting dragged into the mess: the corporate executives and the everyday employees. Ever wonder what goes on in the minds of the people who actually initiate these schemes? It’s not always about twirling a mustache and cackling evilly; often, it’s a cocktail of ambition, fear of falling behind, and sometimes, a warped sense of what’s acceptable.

The C-Suite Crew: Motivations and Missteps

Let’s talk about executives. Why do they even bother with market allocation? Well, picture this: you’re sitting at the top, feeling the pressure to deliver stellar results quarter after quarter. The temptation to take a shortcut and guarantee a certain level of profit by colluding with competitors can be incredibly strong. Think of it as corporate peer pressure on steroids. But, oh boy, are there consequences!

Playing with Fire: The Risks Executives Run

These aren’t just slaps on the wrist; we’re talking serious penalties. First up: Criminal Charges. Yes, you read that right. Antitrust violations can land executives in jail – not a fun place to explain your business strategy. Then, there’s the Reputational Damage. Imagine your name splashed across headlines as a mastermind of illegal activity. Good luck landing that next gig or showing your face at the country club. It’s a career killer, plain and simple.

Caught in the Crossfire: Employees and Ethical Dilemmas

Now, what about the average employee who’s told to carry out these agreements? Talk about a rock and a hard place! You’re ordered to do something that feels deeply wrong, but you also need to pay the bills. It’s a classic ethical minefield. What do you do when your boss asks you to, say, stop contacting clients in a specific region, knowing it’s part of an illegal scheme?

Be a Hero: Whistleblowing and Compliance Programs

This is where whistleblowing comes in. It might seem scary, but reporting illegal activity is often the right thing to do – and there are laws in place to protect whistleblowers. Plus, a robust internal compliance program within a company can make all the difference. These programs educate employees, provide a safe way to report concerns, and hopefully, prevent these situations from arising in the first place. Think of it as a corporate conscience, guiding employees to make ethical choices even when the pressure is on.

The Unwitting (or Not-So-Unwitting) Accomplices: When Third Parties Get Tangled in Market Allocation

Ever heard the saying, “It takes two to tango”? Well, when it comes to market allocation, sometimes it takes a whole cast of characters! While the masterminds are the competitors themselves, often there are third parties – the facilitators – who unknowingly (or, let’s be honest, sometimes knowingly) help grease the wheels of these illegal schemes. Think of them as the stagehands in a shady production.

But who are these “stagehands,” you ask? We’re talking about consultants, brokers, industry analysts, or even trade associations. They might not be the ones directly agreeing to divvy up the market, but their actions can inadvertently (or intentionally) create the perfect conditions for such a scheme to flourish.

Playing with Fire: Risks and Implications for Facilitators

Here’s where things get sticky. If you’re a third party involved in facilitating a market allocation scheme, even without direct participation in the illegal agreement, you are not immune. The risks can be substantial:

• Liability for Antitrust Violations: Even if you didn’t sign on the dotted line, you could still face lawsuits and hefty fines. Ignorance isn’t always bliss in the eyes of the law.
• Reputational Damage: Being associated with anti-competitive behavior can seriously tarnish your business’s image. Who wants to work with someone known for playing dirty?
• Government Scrutiny: Expect the regulators to come knocking. Once they start investigating, life gets a whole lot more complicated (and expensive).

How Do Third Parties Get Involved?

So, how does this happen in the real world? Here are a few examples:

• Strategic Consultants: A consultant hired by multiple competitors might “suggest” strategies that effectively carve up the market. Think of it as a “friendly suggestion” that conveniently benefits everyone involved… except consumers.
• Industry Analysts: An analyst who openly shares sensitive competitive information between companies (like future pricing plans) could be inadvertently facilitating collusion. It is a bit like being a gossip, except for the fact that it can be harmful.
• Brokers: A broker who agrees to only represent certain companies in specific geographic areas could be helping to enforce a geographic market allocation scheme.

The common thread? These third parties provide the means or create the opportunities for competitors to coordinate their actions.

Due Diligence is Your Friend: Staying on the Right Side of the Law

So, what’s a business to do? The key is due diligence and awareness. Here are some tips:

• Know Your Client: Understand your clients’ business practices and be wary of any red flags that suggest anti-competitive behavior.
• Be Mindful of Information Sharing: Avoid sharing sensitive information between competitors that could facilitate collusion.
• Seek Legal Counsel: When in doubt, consult with an antitrust attorney to ensure your actions are above board.

In short, don’t be the unwitting pawn in someone else’s illegal game. Protect your business and your reputation by staying informed and playing it safe.

The Watchdogs: Regulatory and Legal Oversight in the Fight Against Market Allocation

The world of antitrust law can feel like a high-stakes game of cat and mouse, with companies trying to bend the rules and regulatory bodies working tirelessly to maintain a level playing field. In the United States, the primary watchdogs responsible for sniffing out and stopping illegal market allocation schemes are the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Think of them as the dynamic duo of antitrust enforcement, each bringing unique powers and expertise to the table. Their main mission? To protect competition and ensure consumers get the best possible prices and quality.

DOJ and FTC: Antitrust Enforcers Extraordinaire

The DOJ, specifically its Antitrust Division, is the heavy hitter, wielding criminal enforcement power. They’re the ones who can bring criminal charges against individuals and companies involved in blatant market allocation conspiracies. The FTC, on the other hand, focuses on civil enforcement, aiming to stop unfair methods of competition and unfair or deceptive acts or practices in commerce. They can issue cease-and-desist orders, impose civil penalties, and require companies to change their behavior. The FTC often focuses on industries where consumer harm is likely to be widespread. Basically, they make sure companies play fair, or face the consequences.

Unmasking the Culprits: Investigative Powers

So, how do these agencies uncover these secret market-rigging schemes? They’ve got some serious investigative tools at their disposal. One of their most powerful weapons is the subpoena power. This allows them to compel individuals and companies to produce documents and give testimony under oath. Imagine receiving a subpoena – it’s like a formal invitation you can’t refuse, requiring you to hand over potentially incriminating evidence.

And if that’s not enough, they can also obtain search warrants, giving them the authority to conduct searches of premises and electronic devices. Picture federal agents showing up unannounced, armed with a warrant, ready to sift through files and emails. It’s a pretty dramatic scenario, and it underscores the seriousness with which these agencies take antitrust enforcement.

From Fines to Jail Time: Penalties for Market Allocation

When the DOJ and FTC find evidence of market allocation, they can pursue a range of penalties. For criminal violations, the DOJ can seek hefty fines and even imprisonment for individuals involved. We’re talking serious consequences, like years behind bars and fines reaching into the millions of dollars. The FTC, in its civil enforcement actions, can impose significant financial penalties and order companies to change their business practices to restore competition. These penalties are designed to deter companies from engaging in anti-competitive behavior and to compensate consumers for the harm they’ve suffered.

State Attorneys General: Local Heroes in Antitrust Enforcement

But the DOJ and FTC aren’t the only players on the field. State Attorneys General also play a crucial role in antitrust enforcement. They often work in coordination with federal agencies to investigate and prosecute market allocation schemes that affect their states. State Attorneys General can bring their own enforcement actions, seeking damages and injunctive relief to protect consumers and businesses within their jurisdictions. Think of them as local heroes, fighting for fair competition at the state level.

Lessons from the Past: Landmark Cases and Settlements

Over the years, there have been numerous landmark cases and settlements that demonstrate the impact of regulatory enforcement in the fight against market allocation. These cases serve as cautionary tales for companies considering engaging in anti-competitive behavior. They also highlight the effectiveness of regulatory oversight in protecting consumers and promoting a competitive marketplace. By learning from these past cases, businesses can better understand the risks of market allocation and the importance of complying with antitrust laws.

The Courtroom Drama: How Antitrust Cases are Litigated

Ever wondered what happens after the watchdogs sniff out a market allocation scheme? Well, buckle up, because it’s time for some courtroom drama! Think of it as the legal version of a high-stakes chess game, with companies, regulators, and lawyers all vying for checkmate.

The Stage: Federal and State Courts

First things first, these battles usually unfold in federal courts, although state courts can get in on the action too. It’s where the arguments are heard, evidence is presented, and ultimately, where a judge or jury decides who’s been naughty (anti-competitively speaking, of course).

The Rules of the Game: Legal Standards and Burdens of Proof

Now, let’s talk about the legal standards. It’s not enough to just say, “Hey, those companies look like they’re cozying up a little too much!” The plaintiff (the one bringing the case, be it the DOJ, FTC, or a private party) has to prove that an actual agreement exists and that it unreasonably restrains trade. Think of it as showing the court the smoking gun… or, more likely, a trail of meticulously documented emails.

And who has to prove all of this? That’s where the burden of proof comes in. The party bringing the case has the responsibility to convince the court that their claims are true. It’s like a courtroom version of “put up or shut up!”

The Potential Plot Twists: Outcomes of Antitrust Litigation

So, what can happen once the gavel falls? The outcomes in these cases can vary wildly, making each trial feel like its own mini-series. Here are a few of the possible endings:

• Injunctions: Imagine a court order that slaps the wrists of the offending companies and tells them, “Stop doing that right now!” Injunctions are designed to prevent the anti-competitive behavior from continuing.
• Damages: If customers or businesses were harmed by the market allocation, they can seek monetary compensation. Think of it as a way to make things right (or at least a little less wrong).
• Criminal Penalties: This is where things get really serious. Individuals and companies can face hefty fines and even imprisonment for egregious antitrust violations. Nobody wants to trade their corner office for a jail cell!

The Bottom Line: Complexity and Cost

Let’s be real: antitrust litigation is a long, complicated, and expensive affair. It involves countless hours of document review, expert testimony, and legal wrangling. It is a legal battle, with high cost of antitrust litigation, which reinforces the importance of compliance. This is precisely why staying on the straight and narrow is so crucial. Believe me, avoiding the courtroom is way cheaper than fighting in it!

Navigating the Legal Maze: The Importance of Legal Counsel

Think of antitrust law like a high-stakes board game—except the penalties for messing up are way more serious than losing your fake money. That’s where your friendly neighborhood legal counsel comes in. They’re not just there to look important in court; they’re your guides, strategists, and, let’s be honest, your saviors in the complex world of market allocation and antitrust compliance. Ignoring their advice? That’s like trying to navigate a minefield blindfolded.

Developing and Implementing Compliance Programs

Attorneys aren’t just fixers; they’re builders. They can help you construct rock-solid compliance programs designed to prevent antitrust violations before they even happen. These programs are like a company’s immune system, spotting and neutralizing anti-competitive risks. They will create tailored policies, conduct employee training, and establish reporting mechanisms, ensuring everyone knows the rules of the game and the consequences of cheating (which, in this case, could mean jail time). It’s about creating a culture of compliance, where ethical behavior isn’t just encouraged; it’s expected.

Conducting Internal Investigations

Okay, so maybe something did go wrong. Maybe a rumor surfaced, or an employee raised concerns. Time for an internal investigation! Attorneys can swoop in like detectives, discreetly and thoroughly assessing potential antitrust risks within your company. They’ll sift through documents, conduct interviews, and get to the bottom of things. This is about finding out what happened, fixing it, and learning from it—ideally before the DOJ or FTC comes knocking.

Representing Companies in Government Investigations and Litigation

Uh oh, the government is calling. This is not the time to panic (easier said than done, right?). Your legal eagles will step in to represent you in government investigations and litigation. They will act as your shield, guiding you through the process, mounting a robust defense, and working to minimize the damage. They understand the intricacies of antitrust law and know how to navigate the courtroom jungle. Trust me; you want them on your side.

In a nutshell: seeking legal advice isn’t just a good idea; it’s essential for preventing and addressing market allocation issues. Think of your attorneys as your partners in crime—in the best, most legally compliant way possible.

Hidden in Plain Sight: The Role of Industry Associations and Trade Organizations

Industry associations and trade organizations are supposed to be the glue that holds businesses together, right? A place where companies can network, share best practices, and advocate for their industry. But sometimes, that glue can get a little…sticky, and things can go from collaborative to, well, outright illegal without anyone even realizing it.

So, how can these seemingly innocent groups inadvertently or even intentionally become breeding grounds for market allocation schemes?

The Watchful Eye: Vigilance and Compliance Programs

It all boils down to vigilance and compliance. Just like a neighborhood watch keeps an eye out for suspicious activity, industry associations need to keep a sharp lookout for anything that could even hint at anti-competitive behavior. This means having robust compliance programs in place.

These programs aren’t just fancy documents collecting dust on a shelf. They’re living, breathing guidelines that help members understand what’s acceptable and what crosses the line. Think of it as a “Don’t Do This” list, but with legal teeth!

Know the Rules: Antitrust Guidelines and Training

Ignorance is never bliss when it comes to antitrust law. That’s why clear antitrust guidelines and training are an absolute must. Members need to understand the dos and don’ts of interacting with competitors, and they need to know the potential consequences of stepping out of line.

Imagine a sports team without a rulebook – chaos would ensue! Similarly, without clear guidelines, industry associations risk becoming a free-for-all where anti-competitive behavior can thrive.

Innocuous Activities, Hidden Dangers: Examples to Watch Out For

Sometimes, the most dangerous things are the ones that seem harmless. Even seemingly innocuous activities like data sharing and industry standards setting can raise antitrust concerns if they’re not handled carefully.

• Data Sharing: Sharing detailed, granular data about pricing or output can give companies an unfair advantage and make it easier to coordinate their behavior. It’s like giving everyone the answers to the test before it even starts!
• Industry Standards Setting: While setting industry standards can be beneficial, it can also be used to exclude certain competitors or products from the market. Think of it as setting the bar so high that only a select few can clear it.

The key takeaway? Industry associations and trade organizations need to be extra careful to avoid even the appearance of anti-competitive behavior. By staying vigilant, providing clear guidelines, and offering regular training, they can help ensure that their members play fair and that the marketplace remains competitive for everyone.

The Economic Lens: Unmasking Market Allocation’s True Cost with Economists and Expert Witnesses

So, you’ve got this shady market allocation scheme, right? But how do you prove it’s actually hurting anyone? That’s where our caped crusaders – the economists – swoop in. Think of them as the financial detectives, armed with spreadsheets and statistical models instead of magnifying glasses and trench coats. They’re there to dissect the mess and demonstrate, in cold, hard numbers, just how much damage has been done. These folks aren’t just guessing; they’re meticulously calculating the real-world fallout of these illegal agreements. They help the court see the anti-competitive agreement and provide detailed explanation.

Peering Through the Economic Microscope: Market Definition, Market Power, and More

What kind of evidence are these economic wizards using? Well, there are a few key pieces to the puzzle:

• Market Definition: First off, they need to figure out exactly what market is being affected. Is it the market for blue widgets in Buffalo, or is it something broader? Identifying the relevant market is crucial because it sets the stage for understanding who the players are and how the allocation affects them. It’s like drawing the boundaries of the battlefield.

• Market Power Analysis: Next, they’ll assess whether the companies involved actually had the power to screw things up. Could they really control prices or kick out competitors? This involves digging into market shares, barriers to entry, and all sorts of other fun (for economists, anyway) data.

• Impact on Prices and Output: Finally, the pièce de résistance: showing how the market allocation actually changed prices and the amount of stuff being produced. Did prices go up? Did output go down? That’s the smoking gun. This is where economic models come in handy, helping to isolate the effects of the agreement from other market factors.

Calling in the Experts: The Role of Expert Witnesses

But economists don’t just do their number crunching in a vacuum. They often present their findings as expert witnesses in court. These are the folks who can break down the complex economic concepts in a way that judges and juries can understand (no small feat!).

Expert witnesses can offer all sorts of helpful insights. Maybe they have deep industry-specific knowledge that sheds light on how the market really works. Or perhaps they’re whizzes at economic modeling, able to simulate what would have happened without the market allocation agreement. Either way, they’re there to help the court connect the dots and see the economic reality of what’s been going on. It is important that they understand how the allocation market harms consumers.

Collateral Damage: When Market Allocation Schemes Squeeze Suppliers and Distributors

Okay, so we’ve talked about the big players in market allocation – the companies carving up the market like it’s a Thanksgiving turkey. But what about those folks down the supply chain? Suppliers and distributors can get caught in the crossfire, facing some serious pressure to play along with these illegal games.

Imagine you’re a widget supplier, and two of your biggest customers have secretly agreed to divvy up the market. Suddenly, one of them demands that you stop selling to the other! Talk about a sticky situation! You might hear whispers (or not-so-subtle threats) about losing their business if you don’t comply. It’s like being stuck between a rock and a hard place, and neither option looks particularly comfortable.

Legal Landmines and Your Options

Here’s the kicker: suppliers and distributors aren’t immune to the legal fallout. Even if you’re just going along with someone else’s illegal scheme, you could still face antitrust scrutiny. Yikes!

What are your options? First and foremost: document everything. Keep detailed records of any communication, pressure tactics, or suspect demands. Then, get some independent legal advice – don’t rely on the company pressuring you for guidance because that’s a trap! An attorney specializing in antitrust law can help you understand your rights and the potential consequences of your actions (or inactions).

Stand Your Ground (Legally!)

The key is independent decision-making. You have the right – and frankly, the obligation – to make your own business decisions based on what’s best for your company, not someone else’s illegal scheme. Refuse to participate in any conduct that smells fishy. Don’t agree to limit your sales, fix prices, or otherwise restrain trade just because someone else tells you to. Your business (and your freedom!) may depend on it.

Resources for the Squeezed

Feeling the pressure? Here are some resources that can help:

• Your friendly antitrust lawyer: Seriously, reach out to one.
• The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) Antitrust Division: They have a whistleblower program if you need to report suspected violations.
• The Federal Trade Commission (FTC): They also accept reports of anti-competitive conduct.
• Your state’s Attorney General’s office: Many states have their own antitrust enforcement divisions.

Don’t let yourself become collateral damage in a market allocation scheme. Know your rights, seek legal advice, and stand up for a competitive marketplace!

So, there you have it! Market allocation in a nutshell. It’s definitely not the kind of sharing we learned in kindergarten, and it can have some pretty serious consequences. Hopefully, this clears up what it is and why it’s something to watch out for.