This document discusses software piracy, including its definition, types, factors contributing to it, legal and economic ramifications, and ways to reduce it. Software piracy is defined as the unauthorized copying or distribution of copyrighted software. There are two main types: corporate piracy, which involves exceeding licensing limits, and internet piracy, which uses online means to distribute unlicensed copies. Factors driving piracy include costs and testing applications before purchasing. Legal consequences include fines up to $150,000 per violation and criminal charges. Economically, piracy resulted in $53 billion in losses globally in 2008. Reducing piracy could create thousands of new jobs. The document encourages only using legitimate software and reporting piracy.

1. Software Piracy – The Legal and Economic Ramifications