Software piracy does not only affect a few people, it affects everyone. This can hurt the economy and also cause harm to your computer. There are many things you can do as an individual to help stop piracy. There is an agreement on every software product called EULA (End User License Agreement). Read this agreement whenever you purchase any kind of software and it will tell you how you can legally use it.

Whenever you purchase any CD software, make sure you are getting it from an authentic manufacturer. Whenever you purchase software downloads, only purchase them directly from the manufacturers website. Do not let anyone install your software on his or her computer. This is called softlifting and is a very common form of pirating. You can prevent people from doing this by registering your software.

One of the biggest things you can do to help stop piracy is reporting it if you either purchase software that is not authentic or you suspect the seller is not selling authentic software. Whenever you purchase software, it is a good idea to keep your receipts and packaging so you have proof of purchase should you need it.

There are also things companies can do to stop piracy as well. Make a software policy for all the employees and include rules on how they can use the software. Learn about your company’s software licenses and lean if the employees are allowed to install these at home. Also, keep a record of all the software the employees use.