Computer users cite the risk of security threats from malware as the top reason not to use unlicensed software. The intrusions by hackers and loss of data are among their specific concerns. Yet a striking 85 percent of the software installed on personal computers in Azerbaijan in 2013 was not properly licensed. These and other findings released today in the BSA Global Software Survey underscore the need for effective software management practices, especially in business settings. "Awareness of risks for using unlicensed software increases from year to year, and the rate of unlicensed software use has decreased by nine percentage points since 2005," spokesperson for BSA in Azerbaijan, Nariman Ramazanov, said. "Nevertheless, the rate at 85 percent is still too high. Now it is time for government, business and users to reduce the use of unlicensed software. Systematic work and control over software assets will not only decrease the overall level of violations of Copyright act, but will also avoid risks and reduce a company's own expenses," he added.

The BSA Global Software Survey is conducted every other year for BSA by IDC, which this year polled computer users in 34 markets including nearly 22,000 consumer and business PC users and more than 2,000 IT managers. Among the findings: • The percentage of software installed in Azerbaijan without licenses was 85 percent in 2013, which is two points lower than in 2011. • The main reason due to which computer users around the world avoid working with unlicensed software are their concerns about security threats from malware. Some 64 percent of users believe there is the possibility of unauthorized access by hackers and 59 percent loss of data. • IT managers around the world have expressed understandable concern that unlicensed software can cause harm. But less than half of them can confidently say that their companies use properly licensed software. • Only 34 percent of the companies globally have written policies requiring the use of properly licensed software. "Unlicensed software use is an organizational governance issue - and this study shows there is a clear need for improvement," BSA President and CEO Victoria Espinel said.

"There are basic steps any company can take to ensure it is fully compliant, like establishing a formal policy on licensed software use and maintaining careful records. Companies also should consider implementing more robust software asset management programs that follow internationally-accepted guidelines," she added. "These SAM programs can deliver substantial value by ensuring adequate controls are in place to provide a full view into what is installed on a network. That helps organizations avoid security and operational risks, and it ensures they have the right number of licenses for their users." Other conclusions made by BSA study: • The global rate at which PC software was installed without proper licensing rose from 42 percent in 2011 to 43 percent in 2013, as emerging economies, where unlicensed software use is most prevalent, continued to account for a growing majority of all PCs in service. • The total commercial value of installed unlicensed software was $62.7 billion in 2013. • The highest level of unlicensed software usage is observed in the Asia-Pacific region (62 percent). This figure increased by two points compared to 2011.

The commercial value of installed unlicensed software reached $21 billion. • Central and Eastern Europe (61 percent) is the second largest region of unlicensed software. Last, another regions are Latin America (59 percent), the Middle East and Africa (59 percent as well). • The share of unlicensed software dropped by three points and stood at 29 percent in Western Europe, and its commercial value totaled $12.8 billion in 2013. • The share of unlicensed software decreased by two points and stood at 31 percent In the European Union, while its commercial value totaled $13.5 billion in 2013. Full text of BSA global study, including regional data, can be downloaded from BSA website: www.bsa.org/globalstudy About BSA: BSA | The Software Alliance (www.bsa.org) is the leading advocate for the global software industry before governments and in the international marketplace. Its members are among the world's most innovative companies, creating software solutions that spark the economy and improve modern life. With headquarters in Washington, DC, and operations in more than 60 countries around the world, BSA pioneers compliance programs that promote legal software use and advocates for public policies that foster technology innovation and drive growth in the digital economy.