Frequently Asked Questions

Software piracy occurs when one or more of the following happen: 

• Software is modified or hacked
• Keys or accounts are copied or sold
• Usage does not comply with the licensing terms of use – for example, software is copied or used on more computers than authorized by its license 

Software piracy exposes businesses and consumers to security threats like malware and can lead to decreased efficiencies in organizations. Only genuine, legally licensed Autodesk software is warranted and supported by Autodesk with access to the latest features, security updates, previous versions and more. 

Using nonvalid software poses risks for individuals and organizations. Nonvalid software may have been modified and/or may include malicious code, leading to issues such as: 

• Increased risk of exposure to malware that can destroy or compromise data, including your work 
• Increased chance of the software not functioning correctly, or failing completely, which may cause safety, quality or integrity issues for your designs, processes, products or structures 
• Limited access to customer support, upgrades, technical documentation, and more

Using nonvalid software also puts you and your company at risk of copyright infringement or other potential legal claims which may lead to civil penalties or criminal prosecution. 

Genuine Autodesk software is legally licensed software purchased directly from Autodesk or an Autodesk Authorized Partner. Genuine Autodesk software will work per the product documentation and Autodesk’s Terms of Use and is free from the vulnerabilities that may be found in nonvalid software.

A certain number of Autodesk subscribers are contacted each year to ensure compliance with Autodesk’s Terms of Use. Audits or Software License Reviews can also help customers evaluate and maximize their utilization of their Autodesk subscriptions. Customers are selected for audits or Software License Reviews based on a range of criteria including subscription registration and activation information.

Autodesk will contact customers who have been selected for an audit or Software License Review and involve the customer throughout the process from initial investigation to resolution.

The Autodesk Inventory Tool (AIT) is an authorized Autodesk tool that scans your devices to inventory all Autodesk product installation and use.

Smart software management practices can help your business manage complex licenses and prevent noncompliance. It can also help save you money by identifying over or under-deployment of licenses. Software management isn't just about avoiding noncompliance. It helps protect your work, ensure productivity, and is smart business.

• Thinking all software license agreements / terms of use are the same
• Employees downloading nonvalid software
• Reusing machines without cleaning them first
• Sharing logins
• Letting people / departments buy their own software

Yes, visit Manage Your Software to learn more. You may also speak with one of our customer support specialists for guidance on effective software management strategies.