 |
|
 |
|
|
Software Piracy
|
| Software Piracy - What it is & What
it does
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 "nondisclosure
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. PageGate, WebGate,
NotePager Net and NotePager are all posted as shareware.
Click here for the limitations
of PageGate, WebGate and NotePager Net.
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.
NotePager, PageGate, WebGate and NotePager Net are
NOT freeware.
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
Publishers Association -To report Software Piracy
(SPA) (800)388-7478
M Street NW
Washington, DC 20036-4510
(202)452-1600 (voice)
(202)223-8756 (fax)
Business Software
Alliance Hot Line 1-888-NO-PIRACY or e-mail
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
|
|
|
 |
|
|
