BSA Numbers Backlash

from the something-doesn't-look-right... dept

Yesterday we pointed out that the BSA had come out with their bogus annual numbers suggesting that software copying was a much bigger problem than it really is. It appears that a few more people are starting to point to problems with the BSA numbers as well. In the UK, Ross Anderson has, rightly, called the report “scare mongering” by the BSA — and notes that this is all a decoy. The BSA is really trying to crack down on “grey market” sales (such as buying from a different country where the software is cheaper). Meanwhile, Bob Frankston is pointing out that cracking down on copied software in developing nations is only more likely to push them to create their own software industry rather than using American software and buying from us when they can. Oh, those unintended consequences


Add Your Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Have a Techdirt Account? Sign in now. Want one? Register here

Comment Options:

Make this the or (get credits or sign in to see balance) what's this?

What's this?

Techdirt community members with Techdirt Credits can spotlight a comment as either the "First Word" or "Last Word" on a particular comment thread. Credits can be purchased at the Techdirt Insider Shop »

Follow Techdirt

Techdirt Daily Newsletter

Ctrl-Alt-Speech

A weekly news podcast from
Mike Masnick & Ben Whitelaw

Subscribe now to Ctrl-Alt-Speech »
Techdirt Deals
Techdirt Insider Discord
The latest chatter on the Techdirt Insider Discord channel...
Loading...