Asia Pacific, 62% of the software installed on personal computers in 2013 was not properly licensed, according to a BSA survey.
This represents the highest level of unlicensed software use of any region in the world, and the highest commercial value of unlicensed installations globally at $21 billion.
Based on the latest biennial BSA Global Software Survey, this is happening even though computer users cite the risk of security threats from malware as the top reason not to use unlicensed software. Among their specific concerns are intrusions by hackers and loss of data.
This year’s survey polled computer users in 34 markets, including nearly 22,000 consumer and business PC users and more than 2,000 IT managers.
“Most people don’t know what is installed on their systems. That needs to change,” said BSA president and CEO Victoria Espinel. “There are common-sense steps managers and administrators can take to make sure their organizations are using genuine, properly licensed software.”
The survey also found that IT managers around the world express understandable concern that unlicensed software may cause harm, yet less than half say they are very confident that their company’s software is properly licensed.
Further, only 35% of companies have written policies in place requiring use of properly licensed software.