14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft has debuted new legal actions against Windows and Office pirates. The latest anti-piracy efforts from the Redmond Company come on the heels of its Genuine Software Initiative entering the second year of existence. A set of no less than nine lawsuits have been filed against groups that have abused the company's policy for discounted and academic copies of Windows and Office, selling the products to regular users. Additionally, Microsoft revealed that it has also informed other 50 organizations of possible legal actions in case they choose to continue such business practices.
"We want to make sure we take thoughtful actions to reduce counterfeit and other forms of software piracy. We also want our genuine customers to have a great experience and to add extra value to the products through the add-ons available via the Genuine Advantage program. We will continue our efforts to raise awareness of the inherent risks of counterfeit software and help prevent counterfeiters and software pirates from taking advantage of our customers," stated Cori Hartje, director of the Microsoft Genuine Software Initiative on GSI's first anniversary.
Although Microsoft has filed all the lawsuits in the US, the organizations targeted are based around the world. Masquerading as academic resellers, these groups have made a hefty profit by selling discounted Windows and Office copies back in the US. Microsoft has failed to provide an insight on the extent of the financial damages delivered by such practices. However, it has pointed to the fact that the illicit profit is in the range of millions of dollars.