A common problem that arises from a lack of proper software asset management in an organisation is the installation or use of more copies of software than the number of licenses purchased. These excess installed copies of software are illegal just like other kinds of software piracy. With the commencement of the Intellectual Property (Miscellaneous Amendments) Ordinance 2000 on 1 April 2001, it is a criminal offence to use unlicensed software in business.

Refer to the Intellectual Property Department (IPD) web page for more details about copyright issues.