The Federation Against Software Theft has warned that it
will pursue companies using unlicensed software through the
criminal courts, in a return to "hardball" tactics that could see
directors face 10 years in prison.
FAST said it will consider using powers under the Copyright Design
and Patent Act 1988, rather than taking civil action.
Directors of firms found guilty under the CDPA could face a maximum
of 10 years in prison and unlimited fines. About one in four UK
firms use unlicensed software, according to the Business Software
Alliance.
John Lovelock, head of legal affairs at FAST, said it had last used
the CDPA in 1999. The change in tactics was in response to rising
levels of software piracy among UK businesses, he added.
"If we have one or two high-profile cases going to court and we get
results, we think this will be enough to get people to sit up and
take notice," said Lovelock
Sian Croxson, a partner at law firm DLA, advised IT directors to
make sure their company has an up-to-date software audit.