Avoid software piracy

Software piracy is the duplication, distribution, or use of software without authorization from the copyright owner. Software piracy is a crime that hurts everyone — businesses and consumers. On these pages, you'll find information on piracy, including tips on how to protect yourself, your business, and your ideas.

How to spot illegal software

If you are purchasing FileMaker software from an online seller other than FileMaker or a well-known, trusted retailer, watch out for these 7 warning signs:

1. "Too good to be true" pricing
2. "CD-ROM only" sales without the box and printed documentation
3. Previously registered software
4. Restricted-use software
5. Anonymous sellers
6. No refund policy
7. Multi-license packs

Did you know?

It's estimated that as much as 90% of software sold over auction sites like eBay is either illegal counterfeit or grey market copies.

Additionally, it's estimated that up to 41 percent of installed business software worldwide and 20 percent in the U.S. is illegally copied. Software theft and its related effects -- including lost jobs, wages and tax revenues -- totaled an estimated $9.1 billion in the U.S. and $53 billion worldwide in 2008.

What are the types of software piracy?

Software piracy is the duplication, distribution or use of software without authorization from the copyright owner. It includes:

• Downloading unlicensed copies of software from the Internet
• Making copies for, or loaning disks to, friends or associates
• Installing one licensed copy onto multiple computers
• Selling counterfeit or back-up copies online or elsewhere
• Using unlicensed or counterfeit copies

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