What is termed as software piracy?

Software piracy is defined as the unauthorized copying, distribution, or use of software that is protected by copyright laws. When individuals or organizations use software without purchasing the appropriate licenses or obtaining permission from the copyright holder, they engage in a form of copyright infringement. This behavior not only violates legal statutes but also undermines the software industry's economic viability, as developers rely on revenue from legitimate sales to fund future innovations.

The other options do not align with the definition of software piracy. Legal sharing among users, such as through joint licensing agreements or within a family of licensed users, is permissible. Creating open-source software embodies a different ethos entirely, aimed at promoting users' freedoms to study, modify, and distribute software without cost. Distributing software updates to legitimate users is commonly part of the support services and maintenance that legitimate software companies provide and does not constitute piracy. Understanding these distinctions is vital for recognizing ethical practices in software usage and distribution.