MikroBitti 2/1985, page 20, letters to the editor:

Limited copying of software is legal
(Original title: Ohjelmien rajoitettu kopiointi on luvallista)


Hagström has given us false information

On MikroBitti 4/1984 field manager Johan Hagström voiced his strong opinions on software copying in his writing "The copyright law applies to home computer hobbyists too: Macro punishment for a micro crime".

Because there was partially false and misleading information, there is a need for a response.

According to the text you could easily get the notion that any tape of floppy copying is illegal and punishable. Hagström mentioned the copyright law which deals with the rights of the creator or copyright holder of a program.

He may not have read or paid as much attention to the beginning of the second chapter of the law, which deals with the limits of copyright.


When can you pass on a copy of a program

According to Hagström, you can't provide a copy to anybody outside the household - most often referring to family members. This is a false claim.

You can hand a copy to another person for free, if you have heavy personal ties to the recipient.

These kind of ties refer, for example, to long-time or otherwise good friends. The recipient doesn't have to be a member of the same household.


When is it illegal to pass on a copy

You can't pass a copy to a person with whom you don't have personal ties. Likewise, it's illegal to offer copies on, for instance, a magazine.

You can't get any kind of compensation for a copy either.

Hagström is right when he mentions that on computer magazines some have offered copied software at lower prices compared to computer stores, which is of course forbidden.


Conclusion

Unfortunately Hagström took an aggressive stance in his text. It's somewhat understandable, as he is a representative of the Commodore importer and computer companies probably suffer the most because of copying.

In addition, Hagström either voluntarily or by accident messed up the roles of the importer, district attorney, courts and even the officials maintaining criminal records.


Best regards,

Kari Stachon
Student
Eager MikroBitti reader

P.S. The copyright law and the legal position of software copying might change because of the upcoming renewal, but such changes are not in effect or actual as of now.