Microsoft’s long taken aggressive steps to curb the rampant piracy of its software in Europe, but it seems like things have gotten a little out of hand: a new report in the New York Times today says Russian authorities are using piracy “investigations” as a pretext for seizing computers and other materials from political opponents of the government and news organizations. What’s more, apparently Microsoft is quite supportive of these raids — its lawyers have described the company as a “victim” and pushed for criminal charges. Making matters even worse, Microsoft is also accused of refusing to help targeted groups which have specifically purchased software to avoid being raided — the company has said it’s a matter for the Russian security police.
Further reading: Antipiracy, Microsoft, Security
