INDECOPI inspecting genuine use of software in local businesses

The Peruvian Institute of Unfair competition and Protection of IP (INDECOPI) is monitoring some businesses in order to verify that they are using genuine software in their computers. So far, in the city of Chiclayo, in the Lambayeque region, the Institute has inspected six companies, 159 computers and 295 software.

"The installation or reproduction of computer programs without authorization of the holder (license) infringes the rights recognized by Peruvian law and international treaties," said Magaly Guzman, head of the Regional Office of INDECOPI in Lambayeque.

After this procedure, INDECOPI may initiate appropriate administrative processes to punish the companies in which it has found pirated software. The legislation allows the INDECOPI to impose administrative sanctions (i.e. temporary or permanent closure of an offending establishment), confiscation of equipment and/or accessories involved in the illegal act and the imposition of fines.