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Software Piracy - What it is & What it does
Feel free to replicate or modify this and include it
on your website to educate users about the different types of software available
Kinds of Piracy End User Piracy
Using multiple copies of a single software package on several different systems
or distributing copies of software to others.
Reseller Piracy - Reseller piracy occurs when an unscrupulous
reseller distributes multiple copies of a single software package to different customers;
this includes preloading systems with software without providing original manuals
& diskettes. Reseller piracy also occurs when resellers knowingly sell counterfeit
versions of software to unsuspecting customers. Indications of reseller piracy are
multiple users with the same serial number, lack of original documentation or an
incomplete set, and nonmatching documentation.
BBS/Internet Piracy - BBS/ Internet Piracy occurs when
there is an electronic transfer of copyrighted software. If system operators and/or
users upload or download copyrighted software and materials onto or from bulletin
boards or the Internet for others to copy and use without the proper license.
Trademark/Trade Name Infringement - Infringement occurs
when an individual or dealer claims to be authorized either as a technician, support
provider or reseller, or is improperly using a trademark or trade name.
Effects of Piracy - When software is pirated, consumers,
software developers, and resellers are harmed. When software is pirated the consumers
run the risk of viruses, having corrupted diskettes and defective software. The
consumer usually has inadequate documentation to enjoy the full benefits of the
software package and is unable to take advantage of technical support and product
upgrades, which are typically available to legitimate registered users of the software.
When software is pirated, developers lose revenue not only from current products
but from future ones as well. As software is sold, a portion of the revenue is funneled
back into developing better software packages. When software is pirated, software
developers lose revenue from the sale of their products, which hinders development
of new software and stifles the growth of the software company.
Different Kinds of Software and What the Licensing/Terminology
Means:
Beta Software - This is software that is in the testing stage of its development.
Typically, the software developer allows individuals and organizations to preview
new software in return for feedback on any problems encountered. Beta software usually
has some bugs. In many cases this type of software is also covered by special licensing
agreements that, in addition to standard terms of use, include a "non-disclosure
agreement". The NDA prohibits discussion of the software and its capabilities.
Shareware or "Trial Software" - This is built on the concept
of "try it before you buy it." A version of the software that is missing features
or cannot be used more than a certain number of times or days is distributed freely.
This gives the user the opportunity to try the software, and determine if it fits
their needs.
Freeware - As the name implies, this type of software is
distributed freely, with no usage cost. Freeware does, however have licensing agreements
that need to be followed.
Public Domain - With this type of software, the copyright
holder has given up all rights to the software, allowing it to be freely copied
and distributed. Unlike Freeware, public domain software can be modified or repackaged
for sale.
To Report Piracy :
Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA)
To report Software Piracy (800)388-7478 1090
Vermont Ave, NW 6th Floor
Washington, DC 20005
(202) 289-7442 (voice)
(202) 289-7097 (fax)
Business Software Alliance
Hot Line 1-888-NO-PIRACY or email software@bsa.org
18th Street NW
Suite 700
Washington, DC 20036
(202)872-5500 (voice)
(202)872-5501 (fax)
The Canadian Alliance Against Software Theft (CAAST)
- (800)263-9700
PO Box 6272
Station A
Toronto, Ontario M5W1P7
The Association of Shareware Professionals
157-F Love Avenue
Greenwood IN
46142
phone 317-888-2194
fax: 317-888-2195
Microsoft Antipiracy
Hot Line (800)R U LEGIT or email piracy@microsoft.com
Anti-Crack Resource
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