Internet
Fact-checked

At EasyTechJunkie, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

How Do I Report Pirated Software?

Alex Newth
Alex Newth

Pirated software is a problem in many countries and for many businesses. By making illegal copies of software, an individual or business undercuts the software developer or seller and causes a loss of profit. If you find illegally copied software, it is ethical to report it, which might seem like a hassle, but it takes only a few minutes, and you might reap a monetary reward for reporting it. You usually can report pirated software by contacting the person or company that owns the rights to the software or by contacting an organization that is dedicated to stopping software piracy, such as the Business Software Alliance (BSA®). Unless required by law, your identity will not be disclosed as the person reporting the illegal software.

Most software distributor websites have a special page for reporting pirated software. This is because every company recognizes that its software could be stolen because of the relative ease of pirating programs. You typically will just have to tell the company what business, person or website is distributing the illegal software. Your name and contact information typically will not be required when you report the pirated software.

Making unauthorized copies of software for friends is a form of copyright piracy.
Making unauthorized copies of software for friends is a form of copyright piracy.

If the software distributor’s website does not have a special page for reporting piracy, the next option is to use the regular contact page. Every website should have the email of the website administrator, and you can contact him or her to report the fraud. Just tell them the identity of the person or the location of the business, either physically or online, and what makes you believe that the software is illegal. Just like reporting through the page dedicated to piracy, you should not be required to leave your own name and contact information.

Most software distributor websites have a special page for reporting pirated software.
Most software distributor websites have a special page for reporting pirated software.

The Business Software Alliance is dedicated to making and protecting software. It is responsible for making laws against cyber crimes, and its website has a page where users can anonymously report pirated software. No contact information is needed, just some information about who is selling or distributing the illegal software. You can supply your email address, but this will be used only to update you about the investigation status, if an investigation is conducted.

Software often have an installation code built in to prevent piracy.
Software often have an installation code built in to prevent piracy.

The BSA® offers a financial reward for reporting pirated software if certain conditions are met. The software theft must have occurred in the United States or Canada, although software theft in other countries might be investigated as well, and the person or company must be sued for using the illegal software. If the law in that jurisdiction prohibits rewards, then you will not receive compensation. Even if you don't receive compensation, reporting pirated software will help the software distributor recover lost profit, which will enable the company to allocate more funds to making better programs.

Discussion Comments

anon322808

Does anyone know the law in New York State and in Florida for the disclosure of my identity? Can it be anonymous? Can someone point me in the right direction to find out?

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Making unauthorized copies of software for friends is a form of copyright piracy.
      By: Michael Flippo
      Making unauthorized copies of software for friends is a form of copyright piracy.
    • Most software distributor websites have a special page for reporting pirated software.
      By: Gandolfo Cannatella
      Most software distributor websites have a special page for reporting pirated software.
    • Software often have an installation code built in to prevent piracy.
      By: Roman Gorielov
      Software often have an installation code built in to prevent piracy.
    • A person can report piracy by calling piracy hotlines.
      By: Igor Mojzes
      A person can report piracy by calling piracy hotlines.