Pictured above: Chris Pallett
Shropshire businesses have been mis-sold software worth hundreds
of pounds, a county IT expert has revealed.
The world-wide problem of business owners assuming software on
new computer equipment will be legal causes national problems but
county companies are now feeling the effects.
Microsoft itself has recently hired investigators to track down
businesses that are selling computers with pirated software
installed and Telford based IT business Bespoke Computing Ltd has
recently seen a number of cases where local businesses have been
miss-sold software worth hundreds of pounds.
Chris Pallett, of Bespoke Computing Ltd, said: "We had one
instance recently where a Shropshire-based IT company had quoted
and invoiced for the full Microsoft Office suite under OEM license.
The machine was then supplied with a pirate license taken
from a volume agreement.
"There are several ways to spot unlicensed software such as poor
quality artwork on packaging and media, or another person's details
on registration screens. You may also be missing licensing
documentation or your supplier may refuse to provide it, it may
also be very cheaply priced."
If you suspect that software you have been sold is illegal or
you suspect foul play, visit the Federation Against Software Theft
website at http://bit.ly/aX2bsm.
Business owners who are looking to buy legitimate software can
get advice from Chris and the team at Bespoke Computing, who are
happy to do a software audit or advice on the best way to buy
software.
For more information about Bespoke Computing, please visit their
website here: www.bespokecomputing.com