What are the potential risks of using software that has been copied? There are many of them. Below I have listed the 3 most common problems: 1) Spyware and adware Very often the program is distributed freely with spyware added to it. Then, every time somebody installs it the spyware will automatically be installed onto their system. The danger of spyware are well documented. Your identity is at risk of being stolen. One is always in danger of identity theft when downloading an unlicensed program. 2) Lack of technical support The person who is distributing software won't be able to provide support for it. If you run into issues, you can find yourself with no-one to help you. 3) Copyright violation By the mere fact that you are using this computer software, you are ignoring the copyright laws. Although, presently it's not very common, this might potentially get you into legal trouble. More often than not the distributors will be tried. Nevertheless, it's possible you could be also. So why risk it? So how can you know you are not liable for copyright infringement? The truth is, nearly 4 in 10 copies of software these days are illegal copies. Thus, having the capability to tell legal copy from the illegal copy necessary. Often those illegally distrubuting the applications pretend to be the original owners. Obviously this can easily trick you into downloading a software program that is illegal. To start with, be sure to purchase from official websites. If you arrive at a site by clicking a link from an email, it does not necessarily mean that it is legitimate. You should also steer clear of very low prices. Illegal software packages are often offered for significantly less than the official software. This is often a sure hint the website is not legit. As a final point, never buy a software program via an auction. If you still are not sure, search for reviews regarding the site you are considering purchasing from. If it is a legit site, you will find a great deal of favorable feedback about it. If there is no details on it, you definitely should steer clear. However tempting you shouldn't borrow software programs from somebody you know. The licenses are generally just for one PC. Putting the software on multiple systems is illegal. If you really want to buy it for a friend, then purchase multiple licenses. Also, if you work for a software firm, never install it on your personal computer. This could get you fired, and even possibly into legal problems. In conclusion: illegal use of copyrighted software seriously isn't worthwhile. Even without the many explanations detailed, it's the incorrect thing to do. After all, the software firm worked probably for months on developing that program. They need to earn a living, like other people. If you do not pay them for it, you are actually depriving them for earnings that are legitimately theirs. About the Author Wibu-Systems US are manufacturers of the world's most secure platform for software license protection and copy protection. - http://www.wibu.us
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