CID raids Colombo 4 computer retailer for pirated software

• Consumers urged to be more vigilant and insist on genuine software when purchasing PCs

The Colombo Crimes Division raided the premises of a large scale computer retailer yeasterday, which operates under several business names, at a leading IT mall in Colombo, for selling branded laptop computers installed with suspected pirated software.

The action was initiated through the Power of Attorney for Microsoft in Sri Lanka, and Sudath Perera Associates acted as the legal representatives of Microsoft. A number of notebooks installed with suspected pirated software were taken into Police custody for further inspection and to be produced in Court.

The Sri Lanka Police are focused on taking action on an on-going basis against resellers and traders across major cities in Sri Lanka selling pirated software and illegal Certificate of Authenticity, software labels (COAs) in their business. These resellers and traders are, by now, clearly aware that this is a criminal offence and yet continue to disregard the law.

Microsoft Corporation in Singapore Attorney Jonathan Selvasegaram stated: “This raid confirms that the alarming unethical business practice of installing pirated software into branded notebooks occurs in Sri Lanka, and illustrates the Police will conduct enforcement actions against computer retailers who flout the law.

“According to our sources this happens throughout the country, not just within Colombo. It is of particular concern because customers in Sri Lanka may be duped into using pirated software, exposing them to the risk of malware infection, which could lead to financial, privacy and security risks.”

Selvasegaram stressed that PC manufacturers need to do their part in curbing the pervasive risk of malware infections noting, “To drive sales more and more branded computers are now being sold without any software. Such computers are likely shipped without operating systems, which are later installed by individuals in the downstream supply chain or retail channel who deal in the illegal duplication and distribution of pirated software.”

Equally, customers may unwittingly be purchasing counterfeit or pirated software, believing they are buying genuine software. “Often, buyers are duped into believing that purchasing a branded computer guarantees them original and licensed software, not knowing that the computer retailer may have pre-installed the computer with pirated software. Unknown to many buyers, computers loaded with pirated software come with many security risks,” Selvasegaram explained.

He concluded by explaining that eradicating the use of counterfeit software goes beyond the financial implications of hardware retailers or resellers, but impacts consumers and their loved ones, “Being vigilant and proactive when making computer purchase decisions goes a long way to ensure that consumers are getting genuine software.

“This is the first step in ensuring that consumers are protected from inherent security risks of pirated software, which can pose a threat to consumers’ privacy and security, affecting not just themselves but all at home. To that end, another line of defence for home cyber-security would be to exercise safe online practices, like updating and ensuring anti-virus solutions are always current.”

Sudath Perera, who legally represents Microsoft in this matter stated: “Offenders risk criminal penalties or fines of up to LKR 500,000 per infringement, or up to six months in jail, or both. Company directors and owners can also be held responsible and face similar penalties.

It is important for all businesses and corporates to respect the Intellectual Property rights of others and engage in ethical practice to create an attractive corporate and business environment in Sri Lanka.”