NBI cracks down on computer piracy

As part of a campaign to crack down on software piracy, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has seized a total of 132 personal computers as well as 27 installers containing illegal copies of Microsoft software in two raids conducted recently.

The first raid took place on Feb. 15 in Muntinlupa City at international packaging firm, Crestec Philippines and the second on Feb. 22 in Metro Manila at Cylynx Philippines, Ciscare Technology Ltd and GT Solutions. The raids followed complaints made by Microsoft of suspected piracy.

"We commend the NBI for its continuing focus on reducing software piracy. We are thankful that the manufacture, trade and use of counterfeit products are taken so seriously by Philippine authorities. We have confidence that distributors and users of illegal software will be penalized if they do not abide by the law," Rebecca Ho, spokesperson for Microsoft Law and Corporate Affairs, said.