Software Piracy: Who’s to blame?

An article released by Philstar.com last October 2019 tackled about how more than half (64%) of Philippine companies use pirated software in their daily operations (as revealed in the result of a poll conducted by BSA|The Software Alliance). In one way or another, most of us are guilty in utilizing one. However, not all of us are aware that we are actually doing it. May it be a personal reason or a corporate strategy, the use of pirated software is quite rampant in the PH setting.

In a developing country like ours, most people struggle to earn a living and provide for their families. We even have to sacrifice some of our basic necessities just to get through the day, week, or month. The same way how companies employ strategies to save on costs while remaining competitive in their own respective fields.

“Why would people spend so much for software applications if there is an alternative way to acquire it for free?”

I am not at all saying that software piracy should be tolerated. It is illegal and should be mitigated. However, we cannot expect too much from a developing country like ours. Given how challenged our economy is compared to others, is it reasonable to blame these people when they are most likely just victims of the situation? Or what if instead of getting caught up in the blame game, we work together in addressing the problem?

Software Piracy is not a simple issue to deal with. It is a matter of concern that can greatly affect and put our companies and even country at RISK. If we want to combat it, a multi-sectoral cooperation is necessary and proactive measures and initiatives should be instigated. The following are approaches that software companies can apply:

• Request the government to review and strengthen the implementation of existing laws covering software piracies.
• Improve/ modify product packages to make it affordable for customers, e.g. students, freelancers.
• Companies, together with the government, should advance and/or strengthen their awareness and advocacy campaigns to the public, re: The effects of using a pirated software and the risks associated with it.

We cannot afford to be left behind especially in matters of technological advancement. As such, let us all work hand in hand, even in our own little ways, to combat Software Piracy.