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CS Professional · Artificial Intelligence, Data Analytics and Cyber Security - Laws and Practice · Softwares and Software Security

Sharma Textiles uses a licensed accounting package. An employee installs a cracked copy of the same package on a personal computer. Under Indian law, which position is most accurate?

Computer programs, whether system or application software, are protected as literary works under the Copyright Act, 1957. Installing a cracked copy is unauthorised reproduction and therefore infringement, irrespective of whether it is used after office hours or only on a personal computer.

  1. AApplication software is not protected by copyright, so no violation arises
  2. BOnly system software such as an operating system is protected by copyright
  3. CComputer programs are protected as literary works under the Copyright Act, 1957, so unauthorised copying is infringementCorrect
  4. DThe act is lawful if the personal computer is used only after office hours

Explanation

The Copyright Act, 1957 treats computer programmes as literary works, and this covers both system and application software. Making an unlicensed copy beyond permitted uses is infringement regardless of when the copy is used. Hence the claims of no protection or protection of only system software are incorrect.

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