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Software Licensing - who?s liable?

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by hawk77

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I have been a Network Administrator for a handful of companies (large and small) over the past several years, both as an employee and as a contract worker. I am concerned when I am asked by my employer to install unlicensed software.
I always warn them that we do not have licenses yet I am asked to install the software anyways. When the "S**T hits the fan" who is ultimately liable? Is their any definitive rule regarding this situation? Who will the BSA hold accountable?
How should I protect myself short of asking my employer to "sign off" on the issue(thats a joke).

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by thechas

This issue has been well covered in several other discussions.

My take on the conclusions is:

You have 2 choices to "cover" yourself.
1. Refuse to install unlicensed software, and risk getting fired.
2. Quit and turn the firm in to the BSA.

There are no other "viable" options.

Short of having a labor law lawyer at your disposal.

The BSA has included IT department heads as defendants when they go after companies.

When working as a consultant, you are even more at risk.

Companies will continue to abuse software licensing as long as there are IT staffers who value there job over what is legal.

Chas

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