The legal purchase of (music) software by end users is a core concern for us. This is based on the following convictions: Software companies deserve to be paid for their hard work – as do the customers and the users. Developers, dealers and users – we’re all in the same boat, and for all of us, our success relies on security and fair play.

This is why Native Instruments supports the International Music Software Trade Association (IMSTA) – a non-profit organisation which aims to represent the interests of the music software industry in this field.

The overwhelming majority of musicians wouldn’t dream of equipping their studios with stolen instruments. We believe that this should also apply to equipping your computer with illegal software.

Purchasing legal software also contributes to a broad social responsibility and to retaining jobs. By paying duties and taxes, software companies in turn contribute to financing the countries and the communities in which they are based.

This is why we say: Do the right thing: Buy the software you use.

What are the disadvantages of using illegal software? What are the advantages of purchasing legal software?

Illegal software doesn’t just come with the risk of running into legal problems (prosecution under civil and criminal law), it is also often infected with dangers for your security and privacy. Viruses, trojans or keyloggers, which can access highly sensitive personal information like bank data and passwords, are often included within illegal software or in key generators.

In addition, users of illegal software also have no way to benefit from updates and expansions, and no access to technical support. In short, the functionality and stability of the software is affected, making it unsuitable for any kind of professional or semi-professional use. Also worth considering: What customers and partners seriously like to collaborate with someone who uses illegal software?

What can I do?

It’s important to be very cautious and careful when it comes to conspicuously low prices and/or brand new online dealers. You can always compare the prices with those listed in our online shop. Also be wary if no end user licence agreement is displayed during the purchase process, or if the packaging is different from the kind of packaging usually used by NI.

If you come across illegal software or believe that you’re a victim of software piracy, then please write to us at:

Get in touch if you’re unsure about whether a dealer or an offer is serious or not (you can find a list of our authorised dealers here), or just if you you want to know how many different computers can be used under one software licence. We look forward to hearing from you.