Security Threats Rank as Top Reason Not to Use Unlicensed Software

Computer users around the world cite the risk of security threats from malware as the top reason not to use unlicensed software.

Users' specific concerns include intrusions by hackers and loss of data. Yet a striking 43 percent of the software installed on personal computers globally in 2013 was not properly licensed — a finding that underscores the need for enterprises to adopt effective software management practices.

Key Findings:

• Rate: The global rate at which PC software was installed without proper licensing rose from 42 percent in 2011 to 43 percent in 2013 as emerging economies where unlicensed software use is most prevalent continued to account for a growing majority of all PCs in service.
• Value: The commercial value of unlicensed PC software installations totaled $62.7 billion globally in 2013.
• Security Risks: The chief reason computer users around the world cite for not using unlicensed software is avoiding security threats from malware. Among the risks associated with unlicensed software, 64 percent of users cited unauthorized access by hackers as a top concern and 59 percent cited loss of data.
• Software Policy Awareness: There is an awareness gap between workers and IT managers when it comes to software policies in enterprises: workers are less likely to say there is a formal policy in place than IT managers.

Source: The BSA Global Software Survey