Business Software Alliance Investigation Leads to Court Action Against Two UK Companies

Proceedings have begun in London courts against two companies for allegedly running unlicensed software on office computers, following an investigation by the UK arm of the Business Software Alliance (BSA).

A claim has been issued in the High Court against ACT, a global teleconferencing provider with UK headquarters in Harrow, regarding alleged illegal software use on 125 machines. A further claim in the Central London County Court alleges that Thompson & Co, a firm of solicitors located in London’s Tooting Broadway, had 23 PCs running unlicensed software. In both cases, the software was predominantly Microsoft Office.

“The BSA takes a hard line against the blatant disregard of software licensing regulations,” said Sarah Coombes, Director, Legal Affairs EMEA, BSA. “The BSA and its members are happy to advise and work with companies that need guidance with regard to software licensing and help them through the compliance process, so there is no excuse. Those who deliberate use illegal software and consistently refuse to comply can expect to face serious consequences.”

Established in 1992, ACT employs over 380 people around the world, providing audio, video and web-based conferencing products and services. Thompson & Co Solicitors, with two offices in South London, is run by three partners and specialises in immigration, conveyancing and family law.

The BSA is currently investigating over 100 UK companies for suspected software piracy. UK copyright law states that each software programme must have a licence, and companies run the risk of criminal charges and substantial fines if they fail to adhere to the regulations.