Is pirating illegal even if the software is being given away for free?
The unauthorized copying of software is illegal, regardless of whether it is done for sale, for free distribution or for the copier’s own use. Moreover, those who copy are liable for the copyright infringement whether or not they knew they had violated federal law. Penalties include liability for damages suffered by the copyright owner, plus any profits from the copying or statutory damages of up to $150,000 for each work infringed.
The unauthorized copying of software is illegal, regardless of whether it is done for sale, for free distribution or for the copier’s own use. Moreover, those who copy are liable for the copyright infringement whether or not they knew they had violated international copyright laws. Penalties include liability for damages suffered by the copyright owner, plus any profits from the copying or statutory damages of up to $150,000 for each work infringed.
