In the past the anti-piracy organisation has usually taken civil action against copyright infringers, but in January announced that it was toughening its approach.
The Copyright Designs and Patents Act of 1988 enables a search warrant to be secured from a magistrate's court if a police officer has reasonable suspicion that an organisation – either private or public sector – is infringing copyright in the course of its business.
While unable to name the company involved, or the goods seized, at this stage, FAST confirmed yesterday that it had participated in raids on suspect premises in the Gloucestershire area. It said it had initiated the process by presenting evidence to the police.
Geoff Webster, CEO of FAST, said:
"The Federation has used criminal proceedings on some occasions in the past. However it is currently better known for resolving software piracy issues on a civil basis, which carries less severe penalties and offers the opportunity for offenders to settle out of court."
In a statement issued in January, Webster warned:
"The message to company directors is clear – check your software licenses! Until then you cannot be 100% certain that you're not acting illegally and on the way to receiving a criminal record. Software publishers who are members of The Federation will not tolerate anyone making illegal use of software."
