Activity Scenario about Intellectual Property
1. Pirated Software from Abroad
Bernie works for a large consulting company in Hong Kong. When he was on holiday in Albay he found an Office suit that looks identical to Microsoft Office. The package he found costs P50.00 compared to the price tag of P30,000. Bernie knew that the seller does not honor copyright law. Despite the documentation looking like it has been photocopied, he decided to buy it and returned home with it.
- Do you think Bernie has done anything wrong?
Bernie should not have taken the risk of grabbing the package that looked identical to Microsoft Office because it could have conflict him knowing that it does not honor copyright law and it is very obvious in the pricing. It may even have an impact on his work at a large consulting company in Hong Kong. It could also be a problem with the company for which he worked. He should always be vigilant when it comes to buying a product.
- Do you think the customs will confiscate it should they find out?
Yes, I think customs will seize it (pirated software) because it is illegal in Hong Kong. Bernie could be investigated, and his job could suffer as a result. Bernie also made a mistake in the first place; despite knowing that the seller violated copyright laws, he purchased the item and brought it home with him. He might use it at work because he works for a large consulting firm. The use of pirated software is strictly prohibited by Hong Kong customs, and anyone caught doing so will face legal consequences. Under the copyright ordinance, anyone in possession of infringing copyright work in the course of trade or business commits an offense, whether or not such trade or business involves the dealing of the infringing work, according to the Hong Kong custom government website. The maximum penalty is four years in prison and a $50,000 fine per infringing copy.
