“We’re a small-to-medium-sized engineering firm with razor-thin margins. Using a cracked copy of Mathcad helps us shave costs.”
Other local firms probably do it, right? It’s a minor, victimless crime. That's how you rationalize it. Besides, the shop is running like clockwork.
Until everything stops.
One of your CAD techs sees an ominous red box on their screen that begins with “Dear customer.” It’s not an error message. Reading on, you realize the counterfeit Mathcad you’re using contains ransomware code that burrowed through your network. All your files, across the entire company, are now encrypted and inaccessible. Every email, client project, financial document, and backup.
Your business is now owned by hackers, and the only way to get it back is to pay their seven-figure ransom.
Does this really happen?
Yes, and more often than reported. Businesses won’t easily admit to pirating software, for obvious reasons. They certainly don’t want to advertise the hundreds of thousands or millions they paid to black hats to restore encrypted client files. Ransom payments are frequently “under the table.”
The facts are chilling:
Even if you pay the ransom, there are no guarantees. In another survey, only
29% of victims were able to restore all of their files.
Do you want to risk downtime, data loss, and possible financial ruin?
Ransomware and embarrassment aren’t your only risks.
Ransomware is painful, but other forms of malware could simply destroy files or transmit your private data to outsiders.
Just as importantly, having pirated software in your possession is illegal, regardless of your intentions or how you acquired it. Companies caught with unlicensed software risk huge lawsuits, fines, and possible prison sentences.
Licensed software is a small expense compared to legal costs, loss of your livelihood, and potential for jail time. Shy away from piracy and counterfeit software. It’s the best decision for you and your business.
How do I avoid this problem?
To protect your business from ransomware, use authorized software. Purchase your subscriptions directly from the manufacturer or official resellers.
Subscription services are often more attractive because they are easily folded into operational budgets instead of requiring larger capital expenses. Feature updates and security patches are delivered and installed automatically so you always run the latest, most secure version. And support contracts can help you with any training or technical questions.
Important note* One thing PTC support cannot do is decrypt your files if you are the victim of a ransomware attack. While some decryption tools exist for simpler forms of ransomware, decrypting files is risky and sometimes impossible without the unique key that the hacker holds.
What if I know about a business that might be using pirated PTC software? (asking for a friend . . .)
If you suspect your PTC applications may not be authorized or licensed, please contact us right away and we will help you. PTC does not generally take a punitive attitude towards companies who come to us with earnest intentions.
After you contact us, we will analyze your business needs and help you get the tools you need while still being in compliance. With genuine PTC software, your business will run smoother and more securely. We want you to succeed, too!
Unauthorized Software?
Don't risk exposing yourself to viruses, ransomware, or legal actions. Find out about your options today.
About the Author
Dave Martin is a Creo, Windchill, and PTC Mathcad instructor and consultant. He is the author of the books “Top Down Design in Creo Parametric,” “Design Intent in Creo Parametric,” and “Configuring Creo Parametric,” all available at amazon.com. He can be reached at dmartin@creowindchill.com.
Dave currently works as the configuration manager for Elroy Air, which develops autonomous aerial vehicles for middle-mile delivery. Previous employers include Blue Origin, Amazon Prime Air, Amazon Lab126, and PTC. He holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering from MIT and is a former armor officer in the United States Army Reserves.
