Legal Question in Civil Rights Law in Connecticut

Invasion of Privacy Over Internet by Software Company?

I believe a software company stole personal information from my computer via the Internet. During a 30-day eval period I obtained, from a third party, an ID and key that I hoped would enable full functionality. Being within the eval period I saw no harm in trying the key. Soon after a message appeared stating that I was trying to 'pirate' the software and that my info was sent to the company. It also stated that I should contact them to avoid prosecution. I noticed my modem 'activity' light blinking steadily even though I was not using the Internet at the time. I then found a folder named 'pir8' on my hard disk. The creation date coincided with the message. The folder contained files with my personal email IDs, passwords etc. Each time I ran the software the warning message and new files were generated. The modem light would also begin flashing.

My intent was to test full functionality. It only cost $15.00 and I have a history of purchasing 'shareware' when I find it useful. The 'pirating' here has been of my personal information. If they've done what I suspect, an invasion of my privacy has occurred. This sort of behavior from software companies is appalling and I would like to pursue action against them if I have a case.


Asked on 6/16/02, 8:21 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Charles Aspinwall Charles S. Aspinwall, J.D., LLC

Re: Invasion of Privacy Over Internet by Software Company?

The Net is presenting many problems which the law has yet to address. Yours is one of them. Many Net operators place cookies on your machine, and abstract other information to see what you are buying and where you are surfing.

You do not presently have a case. This type of privacy invasion has not yet been ruled upon.

Your best bet is to install a firewall or privacy program such as Zonealarm [www.zonealarm.com]. It is free and will protect you from activities such as you describe.

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Answered on 6/17/02, 7:41 pm


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