Most Indians ready to pay more for genuine software: Microsoft

NEW DELHI: Most Indians are ready to shell out more for original software, rather than pirated versions, as they feel genuine products are more secure and stable, according to a survey released by Microsoft today.

Coming against the backdrop of rising software piracy, the survey found many participants were in need of ways to protect themselves from inadvertently purchasing counterfeit software.

"More than 75 per cent of consumers in India said they believe genuine software is more secure, more stable and is easier to keep up-to-date," according to the survey.

Going by the report, 86 per cent of Indians are ready to pay more for genuine software, while 79 per cent felt there is a need to protect themselves from unknowingly buying illegal software.

About 2,000 people in India took part in the survey, which covered more than 38,000 people across 20 countries. Consumers that had a personal computer and were the primary decision-makers at home on PC/software purchases took part in the survey.

Microsoft India Director (Genuine Software Initiative) Anil Varghese said the survey findings show that users in India are gradually acknowledging the risks of using pirated or counterfeit software.

"Approximately, 6,000 Indian customers have reported the incidents of pirated or illegal software to Microsoft India in the last two years," he noted.

Microsoft India Director (IPR & License Compliance, Legal and Corporate Affairs) Keshav S Dhakad said the number of complaints related to piracy has increased in the recent past, which indicates increased awareness among consumers.

As per the survey, 82 per cent of respondents said software companies should do more to stop their products from being counterfeited and 76 per cent believe the government should take more steps to curb illegal software.

In its fight against piracy, Microsoft India is also carrying out various programmes to create awareness among consumers and resellers about the risks associated with pirated software.

Microsoft India Head (Business Value Communications) Tushar Makkar said educating consumers about piracy is the best way to fight the menace.

For corporate clients, Microsoft conducts software asset management audits to ensure there are no incidents of piracy.

IT services firm Symphony's CIO, Vijaya Shaker, said the company is using technology to ensure compliance with guidelines against piracy. Symphony is a client of Microsoft.