Correlates of Internet Software Piracy

The correlative and contributory factors in software pirating are established, specifically concerning types of Internet access and past experience with the unlawful duplication of computer CD-ROMs.

Abstract

Software piracy has become a significant problem for businesses and educational institutions, and as computer crime continues to proliferate in our Information Age, its causes and roots merit academic inquiry. This exploratory piece establishes the correlative and contributory factors in software pirating, specifically concerning types of Internet access and past experience with the unlawful duplication of computer CD-ROMs. An independent samples t test and a bivariate correlation matrix were used to empirically evaluate relationships between variables. The results of this study suggest policy aimed at combating the onset and perpetuation of unethical and illegal computing activity among students.