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Friday, April 23, 2004
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Software Piracy - The beginning of the end?
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Investigators seized 200 computers across the globe to break up online piracy networks that distribute copyrighted music, movies and software, the US Justice Department said on Thursday. In addition Federal agents seized computers in 80 sites across the US.
The sweep, carried out in 27 US states and 10 foreign countries, targeted covert "warez" groups are responsible for 95% of all pirated material available online, distributing computer games and other works before they are officially released, the Justice Department said. Searches were also conducted in the most countries of Europe.
Although about 100 participants had been identified, none had yet been charged. The worst conviction that can be charged for copyright violations in the US could face up to five years in prison.
In the meanwhile, game developer Encore Software reduced prices of its game titles like the magnificent Sacred. At stores Sacred can be found at 30 Euro or less. In Europe many stores have run out the software title since many gamers prefer to buy it rather than cracking it.
If other game developers adopt Encore's policy lowering their prices and attracting more gamers, and also having those FBI raids plugging along, then software piracy will surely belong to history. |
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