They don't need to have any control of patents to do this, though, they can simply operate through FUD alone. Even though it's illegal, US IP law is very weak a

They don't need to have any control of patents to do this, though, they can simply operate through FUD alone. Even though it's illegal, US IP law is very weak against such fraudulent behaviour and the slap on the wrist they _might_ get if they're caught will be outweighed by the profit they make from those who fall for their racket.