Microsoft Corp., the world"s largest software maker, on Monday said it was filing lawsuits against eight computer system builders and resellers in seven U.S. states, accusing them of distributing counterfeit and unlicensed software and software components. The lawsuits follow similar action in November 2004 against eight dealers. Legal amendments in 2003 provide criminal and civil penalties for distributing software without authenticity certificates.
"Our partners are coming to us and asking for our help," said Microsoft senior attorney Bonnie MacNaughton in a statement.