Blog : Software Piracy

Software Piracy

Written by Rohas Nagpal
Friday, 16 April 2010 12:50 - Last Updated Monday, 19 April 2010 09:08
Many people do not consider software piracy to be theft. They would never steal a rupee from
someone but would not think twice before using pirated software. There is a common
perception amongst normal computer users to not consider software as “property�. This has led
to software piracy becoming a flourishing business.
Scenario 1:
The software pirate sells the pirated software in physical media (usually CD ROMs) through a
close network of dealers.
Modus Operandi: The suspect uses high speed CD duplication equipment to create multiple
copies of the pirated software. This software is sold through a network of computer hardware
and software vendors.
Usual motives: Illegal financial gain.
Applicable law (Before 27 October, 2009): Section 43 & 66 of the Information Technology Act
and section 63 of Copyright Act.
Applicable law (After 27 October, 2009): Section 43 & 66 of the Information Technology Act
and section 63 of Copyright Act.
Scenario 2:
The software pirate sells the pirated software through electronic downloads through websites,
bulletin boards, newsgroups, spam etc.
Modus Operandi: The suspect registers a domain name using a fictitious name and then hosts
his website using a service provider that is based in a country that does not have cyber laws.
Such service providers do not divulge client information to law enforcement officials of other
countries.
Usual motives: Illegal financial gain.
Applicable law (Before 27 October, 2009): Section 43 & 66 of the Information Technology Act
and section 63 of Copyright Act.
Applicable law (After 27 October, 2009): Section 43 & 66 of the Information Technology Act
and section 63 of Copyright Act.