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16 copyright infringement DENTAL TECHNOLOGY, JULY-SEPTEMBER 2023

COMBATING SOFTWARE

PIRACY IN THE HEALTHCARE

INDUSTRY IN INDIA

RAJ LATHA KOTNI AND ANANYA SINGH

According to a survey by the authoritative Business Software Alliance, more than 37% software installed on personal computers globally is
unlicensed. This is even more pronounced in India with over 55% unlicensed software installations. Currently India is ranked number 4
worldwide in terms of total commercial value of unlicensed software only after USA, China and Russia as per a 2022 study. Improving
software compliance is not only an ethical requirement and an economic enabler but also a security imperative.

INTRODUCTION SOFTWARE PIRACY IN THE HEALTHCARE INDUSTRY
Software Piracy refers to the illicit duplication, distribution, or use of In the realm of healthcare, software piracy poses a significant threat, par-
software without proper authorization from its creators or owners. It is a ticularly concerning advanced and sophisticated software. These cutting-
global problem that affects numerous industries, including the medical edge applications, meticulously crafted by developers and engineers over
and dental sectors. In essence, software piracy constitutes a breach of years of innovation and product development, are often unlawfully dupli-
intellectual property rights, causing financial losses, damage to goodwill cated and sold without the consent of the rightful owners. This nefarious
and reputation of software developers and potentially endangering practice not only undermines the efforts of those who invest time and
users. resources in creating these vital tools but also jeopardizes the safety and
This article delves into the specific issue of software piracy in the accuracy of diagnoses and treatments. The persistence of software piracy
healthcare industry, discussing its impact, and possible remedies in India. demands immediate attention and effective countermeasures.