Compare to the original software, pirated software surely has got advantages. You can use it all at once without the need for a tedious installation and maintenance process, not to mention the low price and easy use. However, considering most of the pirated programs are for business and professional purposes, it is good to be aware of the potential risks.
1- It will be turned out to be a house of cards
Among different types of software piracy, this type occurs frequently especially when pirated software is downloaded online. (See more types of software piracy) When you download a so-called "crack version" on the internet, there would be sugars from hackers waiting for you. Viruses and malware as well as ransomware can lock down the entire computer system.
An NUS research team led by associate professor Biplab Sikdar analyzed 165 CDs or DVDs and 203 copies of pirated software from the internet. As a result, three in five CDs and DVDs turned out to be infected with malware. In addition, 31% of the downloaded pirated software blocks users from completing installations by popping up unwanted advertisements or torrent hosting, and malware.
Even though they face malware or Trojans, users have nowhere to complain. Sending bug reports makes things worse, giving companies good reasons to track your system.
"Consumers and businesses need to understand that non-genuine software comes with a lot of threats" Keshav Dhakad, assistant general counsel and regional director at Microsoft Asia's Digital Crimes Unit said.
2- software piracy is defined as theft, not a gift.
According to CRN Australia, BSA(Business Software Alliance) has settled $35,000 to a Victorian retail outfit over the use of pirated copies of Autodesk's AutoCAD. A Western Australian construction company was also imposed a $10,000 fine over the same issue.
BSA defines software piracy as theft, not as a gift. It estimates that $6.9 billion has been lost from software piracy in North America last year. In that, they provide companies free tools or legal regulations to prevent software piracy.
Under the circumstances, continuing to use the pirated software is equal to waiting for thousands of dollars in fines. That is a loss to the company and might be enough amount to buy other necessary software for the individual.
3- The road to perfect piracy is rough
Congrats if you succeed the pirated programs in your USB. We've got a few steps to go. First of all, check if it works right, The beginning is important since some counterfeit ones don't work normally showing advertisements or even stop users from completing installation in the very beginning. If your program works right, you have to check if malware or ransomware has sneaked into the software. Otherwise, your PC and personal information will be stolen.
You might know that updates or patches are not in your consideration. However, sometimes developers push you to update 'important functions. If you put up with all these steps, you'll be able to produce your cost-effective and perhaps professional results.
Wait, is this really cost-effective?