Software Piracy Prevention

The following information can help you identify pirated software and keep your FlowNetMaster licenses compliant. Piracy is a growing concern throughout the software industry, and many people do not know when they are violating the software license agreement or that they have installed pirated versions of FlowNetMaster software. Please use these resources to help with your organization's compliance efforts and contact us with any questions regarding this issue.

What is Software Piracy?

Software piracy can take place in the following forms.

End-User Piracy

The methods of end-user piracy can vary based on the FlowNetMaster license option you have purchased. See the license options overview for a description of each option and the usage rights associated with them.

Examples of end-user piracy include:

• Installing and using software on the machine of an individual who is not the licensed user
• Over-installing software for use beyond the licensed quantity
• Using the software on more “designated computers” than you are licensed for
• Installing the software on a local-area network (LAN) for use by individuals who are not licensed users
• Using the software in unauthorized geographical regions
• Acquiring academic or student software for commercial use (See the definition of academic and student license qualification.)

Internet Piracy

Internet piracy occurs when users download software from the Internet. The same purchasing rules apply to online software purchase as to those bought in traditional ways.

Examples:

• Pirate Web sites that make software available for free download, or that post cracked passcodes
• Internet auction sites that offer counterfeit, out-of-channel, or copyright-infringing software
• Peer-to-peer networks that enable unauthorized transfer of copyrighted programs

Software Counterfeiting

This type of piracy is the illegal duplication and sale of copyrighted material with the intent to directly imitate the copyrighted product. In the case of packaged software, counterfeit versions often include copies of CDs or diskettes containing the software programs, as well as related packaging, manuals, license agreements, labels, registration cards, and security features.

What is the reason for preventing software piracy?

Developing software is a team effort that involves the creative ideas and talents of development engineers, writers, and designers. Computer software, just like other creative works, is protected by the law.

Our goal is to accelerate the pace of discovery, innovation, development, and learning in engineering and science through the software we create. On our part, we make substantial and continuing R&D efforts, which are funded through the sales of our software products.

Software piracy hurts everyone around because it:

• Reduces the funding for ongoing development efforts
• Reduces job opportunities
• Allows for unauthorized copies of our software that may contain bugs and viruses to be used in the field
• Prevents users from getting high-quality technical support and product updates Piracy is not only a problem for FlowNetMaster. It is an industry and worldwide issue.

Software Piracy is stealing. If you or your company were caught pirating software, you could be held liable under both civil and criminal law. If a copyright owner brings a civil action against you, the penalties may be substantial for each program copied. The government can also criminally prosecute you.

How can I help to keep my software licenses compliant?

There are several good ways to keep track of your licenses and users:

• Use available software asset management systems, audit tools, and other resources to help you ensure software compliance
• Educate your staff on the licensing requirements of your software purchases
• Conduct a self-audit of your software licenses
• Acquire any licenses needed for full compliance