The ITAM Review

News, reviews and resources for worldwide ITAM, SAM and Licensing professionals.

Trading Standards Lends Weight to FAST Campaign

The Federation Against Software Theft (FAST) is to team up with Trading Standards in a pilot campaign based in Cardiff this summer.

One thousand companies in the Welsh capital are due to be sent advice on how to achieve compliance followed up by visitors from Trading Standards.

software piracy

Trading Standards in Cardiff have stated they will be using a combination of guidance and education followed by spot checks later in the year. This follows a change in the law last year together with financial support from the Treasury that allows Trading Standards the right to search premises without a warrant.John Lovelock from FAST said “We can choose which business to go and knock on the door once they have had the letter and given time to consider their position” This adds considerable weight and relevance to the Federation’s activities, and will hopefully result in positive education for companies and reduced piracy rates. Let’s hope this real activity marks the end of FAST’s mindless PR campaigns.

About Martin Thompson

Martin is owner and founder of The ITAM Review, an online resource for worldwide ITAM professionals. The ITAM Review is best known for its weekly newsletter of all the latest industry updates, LISA training platform, Excellence Awards and conferences in UK, USA and Australia.

Martin is also the founder of ITAM Forum, a not-for-profit trade body for the ITAM industry created to raise the profile of the profession and bring an organisational certification to market. On a voluntary basis Martin is a contributor to ISO WG21 which develops the ITAM International Standard ISO/IEC 19770.

He is also the author of the book "Practical ITAM - The essential guide for IT Asset Managers", a book that describes how to get started and make a difference in the field of IT Asset Management. In addition, Martin developed the PITAM training course and certification.

Prior to founding the ITAM Review in 2008 Martin worked for Centennial Software (Ivanti), Silicon Graphics, CA Technologies and Computer 2000 (Tech Data).

When not working, Martin likes to Ski, Hike, Motorbike and spend time with his young family.

Connect with Martin on LinkedIn.

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