More than a quarter of software used in businesses is illegal, according to new research.
And the Federation Against Software Theft (FAST), which is offering its expertise to Trading Standards in its fight against software piracy, is urging businesses to be vigilant against purchasing software with dubious origins. Trading Standards is intensifying efforts to clamp down on illegal software, which global intelligence firm IDC estimates is used by 27% of businesses.
Trading Standards is intensifying efforts to clamp down on illegal software, which global intelligence firm IDC estimates is used by 27% of businesses
Operating under the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988, Trading Standards has the power to inspect workplaces if they receive a complaint from a whistleblower.
John Lovelock, chief executive at FAST, says: “It has become commonplace for businesses to often unintentionally break piracy laws by not paying attention to software licensing. To clarify, if a software application doesn’t have a licence, or if the licence only entitles its use for an individual machine but is being installed on various computers, then it is illegally installed.”
It’s not just the risk of getting caught, he adds, but there are other dangers associated with using pirated software. “Businesses will not benefit from cutting corners when it comes to software compliance.
“Remember that also viruses, spyware and trojans are a few nasty knock-on effects of using pirated software. Aside from a hefty fine and possible imprisonment for criminal offences by directors knowingly allowing illegal use, an organisation can lose its reputation if it is exposed by the media or FAST for illegal activity.”
Trading Standards are warning businesses to check their licences are in order before any inspection.
Fair trading officer at Trading Standards, Rob Abell, reminds employers that there is also an ethical dimension to avoiding pirated software.
“Every year Britain’s digital economy is largely affected by piracy and illegitimate software use; future investment, innovation and people’s jobs are at stake,” he explains. “We want a level playing field for those businesses that are meeting their legal requirements.
“With the support of FAST we are now looking to do more work in the arena of software theft in the workplace, to minimise the chances of the bad trend continuing, as well as helping and supporting those businesses trying to trade legally and remain competitive in the current economic climate.
“We cannot emphasise enough how vital it is for businesses to monitor their software licences. We fully support Trading Standards as they continue to turn the spotlight on organisations.”
