Microsoft files lawsuits against resellers of pirated software
Microsoft has filed 21 lawsuits in federal court in 14 states against resellers allegedly engaging in the sale of pirated software, including some alleged repeat offenders. Microsoft has taken the action as part of its ongoing efforts to protect its customers and partners from the risks of pirated and counterfeit software.
Microsoft also called attention to several resources available to help consumers to ensure they are getting genuine software, including a hot line and online validation tools at its website.
In the cases announced by the company, many of the companies identified in the suits are alleged to have misled customers by repeatedly distributing unlicensed copies of Microsoft software pre-installed on the PCs that they sold. Some of these companies continued with their illegal business practices even after settling previous lawsuits with Microsoft.
