The ITAM Review

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

BSA Announces Four New Piracy Cases

The Business Software Alliance (BSA) has continued to keep the pressure on those failing to use legal software after announcing a handful of successful cases in its fight against unlicensed products.

Three of the cases have ended up being settled and a further one looks as if it could go to court as it pursues users that have failed to use licensed software.

Procurasell

In one of the cases a six-figure settlement was reached with a northern-based travel company after it was found to be using unlicensed versions of Microsoft software. On top of the settlement the company has spent a further £100,000 buying legitimate software.
Settlements have also been agreed with Procurasell, a company developing recyclable packaging, and with online marketing group, Webevents Ltd.

The BSA has also filed an application for a court order against Philips Collection Services, a debt recovery agency from Durham, which is alleged to have been using unlicensed copies of Microsoft and Adobe software on approximately 100 PCs.

“Not only do the settlements take significant chunks out of the companies’ profit margins, they also send negative messages to staff and customers that these firms are willing to resort to unscrupulous measures to save money,” said Najeeb Khan, Vice Chair of the BSA’s UK country committee.

He added that the latest cases should act as an example to the rest of the market and indicate that the industry took the protection of intellectual property rights.

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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