Licensing Agreement Compliance
What is software piracy?
Software piracy is the copying, distribution or downloading of unauthorized copies of software. Two of the most common forms of software piracy are:
- End-user copying—organizations installing software on more computers than are licensed or friends loaning disks to each other
- Distribution—duplication and distribution of illegally copied software, including counterfeit products What are the penalties for pirating software?
What are the penalties for pirating software?
Any individual or company caught copying software may be held liable under both civil and criminal law. Infringers face paying damages to the copyright holder, which can be as much as $150,000 for each program copied. In addition, the government can criminally prosecute and penalize violators with fines up to $250,000, a maximum of five years in jail, or both.
High Gear Consulting, Inc. understands the complexity of today's software license agreements and works with IT staff members to assist in compliance by analyzing current usage and recommending steps toward remediation.
