Shareware and piracy

Shareware and piracy

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 archives 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.

Types 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 PC 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 non-matching 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.

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 "non-disclosure 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. Easy Web Editor, Paper Killer and Hyper Publish are distributed also as shareware.

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. Easy Web Editor, Paper Killer and Hyper Publish 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 (SPA)

+1-800-388-7478

M Street NW

Washington, DC 20036-4510

+1-202-452-1600 (voice)

+1-202-223-8756 (fax)

Business Software Alliance

Hot Line 1-888-NO-PIRACY

email: software@bsa.org

18th Street NW

Suite 700