Despite the risk of security threats from malware as the top reason to not use unlicensed software, a whopping 60 per cent installed on personal computers in India in 2013 were not properly licensed.
These and other findings released in the BSA Global Software Survey, underscore the need for effective software management practices, especially in business settings.
‘‘We have often seen cases where enterprises may not even be aware that they are using unlicensed software. With software licensing becoming increasingly complex, compounded by fast-paced cloud adoption and proliferation of devices through BYOD, organisations require a fresh approach in the way they manage licenses,’’ said Vipin Aggarwal, BSA India Committee chair.
Among the findings:
- The rate at which PC software was installed without proper licensing in India was 60 percent in 2013, a 3 percentage point decrease from 2011.
- The chief reason computer users around the world cite for not using unlicensed software is avoiding security threats from malware.
- IT managers around the world express understandable concern that unlicensed software may cause harm, yet less than half say they are very confident that their company’s software is properly licensed.
- Only 33 percent of companies in India have written policies in place requiring use of properly licensed software.
“Unlicensed software use is an organisational governance issue — and this study shows there is a clear need for improvement. There are basic steps any company can take to ensure it is fully compliant, like establishing a formal policy on licensed software use and maintaining careful records,” said Victoria Espinel, President and CEO, BSA.
