Illegal software use on the up
BSA figures reveals that more firms are being caught using unlicensed software
The number of UK companies using illegal software has increased by 25 per cent according to the latest figures from the Business Software Alliance (BSA).
The organisation reported that it had opened 420 investigations last year into UK businesses reported to be using software illegally. Of that number 80 per cent of the settlement cases in 2005 were as a result of negligence.
Siobhan Carroll, regional manager Northern Europe at the BSA said: “While business managers may be getting distracted by busy schedules, we are also seeing an increase in respect for intellectual property as employees become more aware of piracy and it’s detrimental impact: as a result, we received a record number of leads from informants during 2005.”
The largest settlement in 2005 was for £31,000 and there were eight settlements in excess of £20,000. The majority of companies were from the IT sector (15 per cent) with the next highest offender being the sales and distribution industry (eight per cent).
“While it may seem ironic that the IT sector appear to be the greatest offender when it comes to the illegal use of software, it is perhaps unsurprising that IT staff are the most aware of software licensing issues and the potential reward for informing the BSA,” added Carroll. “It is also interesting to see that accountants, with their awareness of compliance, risk and regulations, are the least likely to become unstuck when it comes to correct licensing procedures.”