Sharjah Police seize two PCs loaded with illegal software in surprise raid on reseller

The reseller had a history of downloading pirated software on PCs intended for sale. In the first raid in the Emirate in 2004, the police also seized 81 CDs containing copies of pirated software and programmes, including Windows XP, Office XP, Office 2000 and Windows 98.

"These raids reflect the continued commitment on the part of the UAE authorities to protect Intellectual property Rights (IPR) in the country. With the concerted efforts of the Ministry of Information, the police and the Arabian Antipiracy Alliance (AAA), public opinion has shifted in favour of protection of IPR. The tremendous fall in piracy rates is well-documented by now," said Scott Butler, CEO of AAA. "However, there are cases of individual resellers that cannot resist the temptation to make a fast buck through the use of pirated software."

"There are three factors crucial to the eradication of piracy in the Middle East. The governments have continually demonstrated their commitment to IPR through the promulgation of stringent anti-piracy legislations and the willingness to implement these effectively," said Butler. "The users are also becoming increasingly aware of the advantages of using original licensed software. They are aware that counterfeit software is often of lower quality. Users of illegal software lose the opportunity to take advantage of warranties, customer support and other benefits that come with legitimate products. As a result, a majority of users are now demanding original software in the PCs they buy."

"On the other hand, numerous distributors and resellers are willing to come forward to visibly underscore their commitment to IPR and educate the buyer on the benefits of using original software," added Butler. "In such a scenario, the software pirate will become increasingly isolated. Legal action, as well as loss of face, can be avoided provided the distributors, resellers and users are willing to support IPR and commit to upholding the legislations of the land."