Many people enjoy shopping online for bargains. The internet is an excellent source for different products, music, and software. The most impressive thing about shopping online is that you can find some real bargains. This can be especially true for software. But here’s a warning: if the price looks too good to be true, you may be getting something more than you planned on. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is warning consumers to be extremely careful of bargain software made available online, as what you are purchasing may contain malware and spyware that can quickly infect your computer.
The Dangers of Pirated Software
If you are purchasing your software from a recognized dealer or retail outlet, chances are that your software purchases are safe and free of malicious programming. Criminals who sell pirated software often add malware or other harmful viruses, which allow them to have access to your computer system. If your computer becomes infected, it’s possible for the criminals to retrieve information from your computer, including email lists, account names and passwords, and other personal information. They can, in turn, use this information to steal your identity and access your financial records and bank accounts. Software identity fraud is quickly becoming a major concern that consumers need to be aware of.
Learn the Danger Signs
At first glance, pirated software may not look any different than what you find in an original package from the manufacturer. However, there are certain things you can look for that can serve as warning signs. Learning what to look for can keep you from becoming a victim of identity fraud from using pirated software.
Packaging. The disc packaging of pirated software usually does not contain original documentation or the instruction manuals are poor reproductions. Often times the discs are in envelopes rather than jewel cases or other professional packaging.
- Poor quality printing on disc. The pirated CD usually has a low quality image printed on it. If the graphics used are distorted or look unprofessional, there is a good chance you have pirated software.
- Burned disc. Most professional software manufacturers use high quality impression equipment to manufacture their discs. Pirated versions are usually burned on a computer or a multi-disc duplicator.
- Incomplete product. If the software says it is a complete retail set but it is missing one of the discs, there is a high likelihood that the product is pirated.
- Off-site authentication. Reputable software manufacturers will have a page on their site for entering authentication keys; however, pirated versions may direct you to an off-site location that has a different name in the website directory.
The FBI stresses the importance of knowing who you are dealing with. If you know you are dealing with the original manufacturer or authorized dealer, then there is a good chance that you are not buying pirated software. If you do go looking for bargains, do some research on the company with which you’re dealing. Even Apple software is vulnerable as criminals have resorted to exploiting the distribution system, so make doubly sure anyone claiming to be a legitimate distributor is, legitimate.
Identity Theft Prevention
The careful consumer can do many things to prevent identity theft. Being wary about where you purchase software online is just part of the process. Getting a credit check is another one. If you review your credit report regularly, you can watch for signs of identity theft. These may include suspicious activity on credit cards or bank accounts. Other things you may find in your credit report are errors on listings of your previous addresses and the presence of accounts which you don’t recognize. If you do see anything that looks suspicious, report it to the authorities.
Without a doubt, software can be expensive. Everyone wants to save money and find a bargain. However, those bargains may provide you with more than you were expecting. The FBI is taking a serious stand on pirated software, not only because it infringes on the original manufacturer’s copyright, but also because identity thieves are using pirated software to steal your personal information. When you review your credit report regularly, you can be assured that identity thieves aren’t tapping into your personal finances. If you find that they are, contact your bank, your credit card company, and the police immediately.
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