Does Pirated Software damage your rep? 1

[dellyjm]

Hi, kinda different this one. If you're employed full time as a Software Developer for an organisation. They IT Manager gives you pirated software to use.

What do you do? Do you use it or say no! If the Feds were to kick off the front door of the office, would the developer be charge for accessory to a crime or something?

Delly.

 

[elizabeth]

I'd advise leaving the organization, but here's an idea from someone I know that was in a similar situation that he felt was unethical, but not directly harmful to anyone, when he was not yet able to leave the organization. Send an email to the IT Manager stating that you are about to (or just did, whatever) install the software he gave you, and stating that you have not yet received the proof of licenses for it. If they stated it was pirate, you may have to be creative in your wording, but just be clear and very polite. CC yourself, print the email and retain the printout at home. If the subject arises while you're still there, you have the document. By the way, don't think it's just outside entities that you need to worry about. It's perfectly conceiveable someone in your own organization, including that IT manager, could attempt to hold you responsible!

 

[butchrecon]

Elizabeth has a good point. Just make sure you cover your own hide. If you do you will be free from trouble if it falls apon your employer. Please let us (Tek-tips members) know if the solutions we provide are helpful to you. Not only do they help you but they may help others.


James Collins
Computer Hardware Engineer
A+, MCP

email: butchrecon@skyenet.net

 

[WhiteTiger]

What about *my friend*??...*he* has loads of pirated software at home, not at work, but *he* only uses it for learning, *he* doesnt make any business off of it, or anything like that...plus, *he* would never buy the stuff if *he* had the money to...this is all the software *my friend* has...

Windows ME
Visual Basic 5 & 6
Flash 5
Adobe Photoshop 5
Eyecandy 3.0 for Adobe
Office 2000
Bryce 4
Poser 3d
Autocad 2000
3ds Max 4

And the list goes on...
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