Be Aware of Software Policy
Unlike other things you purchase, the software applications you buy don’t belong to you. Instead, you become a licensed user. You purchase the right to use the software on a single computer, but you can’t put copies on other machines or pass that software along to colleagues.
Owning software is different than other types of ownership. Because software - although often distributed on media such as CDs, is not a physical commodity, it is considered intellectual property. Ownership of such property is controlled by license agreements. Software licenses are legal documents describing the proper use and distribution of the software and provide the manufacturer with the revenue necessary to continue producing the software, and offering the service and support legitimate users.
There are actually many distinct types of software piracy, and familiarity with them can protect you from any connection, even if unintentional, to intellectual property theft. For an in depth explanation of different types of piracy, visit Microsoft’s website at www.microsoft.com/piracy.
Some basic advice is to catalog all of your software license keys and media. Keep them in a safe place. Make sure you purchase your software from credible sources and don’t ever accept a copied version of software. Finally, if you think there may be illegal software on your systems, consult with NSSI on licensing recommendations.