The word "pirate" typically brings to mind images of 19th century scoundrels out trolling the high seas for their next victims. But there is another type of pirate, the software pirate. Software piracy is illegal but, unfortunately, that doesn't stop some people from unlawfully copying and distributing software. That's why the Business Software Alliance (BSA), a watchdog group representing the nation's leading software manufacturers, recently established a Rewards Program in the United States that offers up to $200,000 to individuals providing qualifying reports about businesses engaged in software piracy.
Since launching the Rewards Program in the United States, BSA has received nearly 2,000 leads nationwide. Recently, BSA announced Rewards Program payments to three individuals with a combined total of $15,500 after their qualifying reports of software piracy led to settlements.
"The success of BSA's Rewards Program is an exciting step forward in the fight against software piracy," said Jenny Blank, BSA's director of enforcement. "With the extra incentive the program provides, more and more people are doing the right thing and reporting software piracy. However, even with this important step, there is still much to be done, and BSA will continue to be at the forefront of the battle to reduce software theft."
Software is one of the most valuable innovations of the Information Age, creating a healthy, diverse marketplace that generates millions of jobs and billions of dollars in tax revenues around the world. According to a study released by IDC in May 2006, the U.S. lost $6.9 billion as a result of software piracy last year. The same study shows that 21 percent of software in the United States is unlicensed.
Software piracy is against the law and can result in fines of up to $150,000 for each software title copied. Using pirated software also increases the risk for security and technical problems.
BSA is leading the global fight against software piracy through education programs, policy efforts and enforcement activities. People who do the right thing-confidentially report piracy-can be eligible for a reward of up to $200,000.
Individuals with detailed information about illegal software use are encouraged to confidentially report infringements to BSA via its online reporting form at www.nopiracy.com, or its hotline, (888) NO PIRACY. |
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