Penalties for computer service installing bootleg software?

Question

I'm having a debate with a friend.  The topic is, if a small computer repair/sales service installs bootleg software (cracked or otherwise) on a computer the customer wants built, either by customer request or by the business offering it, and then somehow gets found out by authorities for making money off a project that involved installing that bootleg software, what are the legal penalties?

I say the business owner would go to jail.
He says the feds don't bother with people like that.

What's the correct answer?  Answers from practicing attorneys, prosecutors, or those with a background in copyright law or other related areas of expertise are most appreciated.

Nuff Sed · Accepted Answer

Being paid money for a willful copyright infringement is a federal crime in the USA.  18 USC 2319.   Penalties include up to 10 years in federal prison, although first offense is limited to 1 or 3 years max.  Plus fines. Plus being sued by the copyright owners for up to $150,000 for each program illegally distributed.  17 USC 504. Statutory damages, even if not with any intent to profit.

One related case I know of involved massive copying of subscription journals from a college database.  Several state and federal charges were brought against the perp, who was also a well known internet policy person (involved in Creative Commons and whatnot). He was facing up to $1 million in fines and 35 years in prison, unable to get a plea bargain with the feds, and killed himself in 2013.  Aaron Swartz.

? · Answer

No not jail.

He'd find himself losing his business and likely his house, when the companies lawyers hit him with multiple suits.

Anonymous · Answer

I went on a site on this topic but can't remember the name, If I'll remember I will let you know.

Anonymous · Answer

What a Dumb*ss....

Penalties for computer service installing bootleg software?

4 Answers