5. Copy protection

Hundreds of different methods have been tried to prevent illegal copying. There is no perfect solution, as some methods are more expensive than others.

- 'Serial number' needed, usually only printed on the original package. The most common method of software protection, but simple to overcome with 'legal' serial numbers

- 'Activation code' needed, you have to go on a web site to get a registered code. Now becoming very popular with companies, as you often have to provide personal information as well.

- 'Dongles', these are bits of hardware that must be fitted to the computer to allow the software to run. Only practical on the most expensive software costing thousands of pounds.

- 'Region coding' - you can only play disks bought in certain countries. Region codes are very popular with Hollywood companies, who want to control how their DVD films are sold around the world.

These technology methods are only of limited use as they can all be overcome.

The only truly effective way of preventing software piracy is to educate people that it is wrong and harmful to do so.

But saving money is always tempting, and so laws have been created to make it not worth the risk of getting caught. This is especially true for businesses who do not want to harm their reputations and good name.