What is the penalty for software piracy?

Answer 1

The penalty for software piracy would depend on the severity of the offense. The penalty can be up to $100,000 per title in a civil lawsuit for copyright infringement. If found guilty of a criminal violation, the penalty can be up to $250,000 per title and up to 5 years in jail.

Answer 2

Copying or distributing copyright material is a criminal offence in a large number of countries. In many cases, unlimited fines can be imposed, confiscation of copying and distribution equipment is common and even prison sentences can be handed down.

To be very clear: Distributing means giving away the copied material as well as selling. It also includes allowing others to copy material that you possess. Peer to peer sharing systems are included.

The larger the operation, the bigger the penalty may be.

Although there will only be a penalty if someone is caught, media companies have huge resources and are willing to invest in hunting down people who distribute copyright material. Before making the copies, it's good to consider if it is worth a prison term.