How to spot illegal software

Not sure if that “too good to be true” price is a genuine FileMaker product? Here are 8 ways to tell if you’re purchasing a legitimate FileMaker product or an illegal pirated copy.

  1. Purchase FileMaker software from FileMaker or from a well-known, trusted retailer.
  2. Avoid "too good to be true" pricing. Online sellers offering FileMaker software at prices and packaging inconsistent with those products sold through legitimate distribution channels. While some offers may seem like a "great deal," buyers may not get what they expect. Additionally, buyers will ultimately need to purchase a legitimate license (or licenses) to continue using the software lawfully.
  3. Watch out for "CD-ROM only" sales without proper packaging. The online seller may show a picture of the full retail product in a shrink-wrapped box, but the seller states that the buyer will receive CDs only. Authentic FileMaker software CDs that are sold by legitimate resellers are always packaged in FileMaker manufactured and branded packaging and should include the following (click to view images):

    If you see FileMaker software offered for sale without legitimate FileMaker branded packaging and appropriate enclosures, it’s probably not genuine or legally licensed.

    You can verify that some software is counterfeit by looking at the CD, which will contain the Source Identification Code "IFPI E2" followed by two digits on the inner hub. CDs with this code were NOT manufactured by FileMaker and are counterfeit.

  4. Check to see if it’s previously registered software. If the product is being advertised as "used" or "previously registered," the seller must obtain FileMaker permission to transfer the license prior to the sale. Any attempted resale without FileMaker permission is prohibited. If you have questions about a particular auction or a copy of FileMaker software you received from an online seller, please contact FileMaker via e-mail at piracy@FileMaker.com.
  5. Make sure it’s not restricted-use software. Restricted-use versions of FileMaker software—such as academic, not-for-resale (NFR), bundled software, or trial versions—may only be acquired by qualified users and generally cannot be resold. Sales of these versions on auction sites, so-called "discount software" sites, or elsewhere may violate the EULA and may not be permitted by law.
  6. Avoid an “anonymous” seller. Companies or individuals unwilling to verify their identity or full business name or provide a physical street address and telephone number are probably not selling legitimate software.
  7. Verify that the seller offers a refund policy. If the online seller does not have a refund or warranty policy, it’s probably best to avoid doing business.
  8. Make sure the software isn’t part of a multi-license pack. Some FileMaker software products are available in 5-license packs or other configurations. As explained in the license terms, such packages cannot be broken up and sold or used separately.