Expert: Bobbert - 3/28/2007

Question
Hi,
I am considering buying software on ebay.  If they say “brand new”, “never used” or “original box”, would that software qualify for registration and support, or would it be like buying a pirated version?  Does it depend on the vendor (a business vs private seller?).  I can find software bargains on ebay, but don’t want to give up any rights as a purchaser.  Thanks for answering this question!


Answer
Its all relative, in some cases a business may be just as faulted as the shady character selling you pirated copies of Photoshop CS3 for $3.99/ea and claiming its brand new.

In other cases, you do get brand new or close to brand new software, most software corporations provide email tech support for their products freely, I can list Microsoft, Symantec, and Electronic Arts as providing such a service without issues, I know that Oracle provides a support forum and very very broad online support database, and they aren't alone in that respect.

I'd seriously look at the auction, and look at your purpose, if you're using the software for a commerical application (something you profit from, or that another organization uses (such as installing it in a school or library)) I would suggest just paying full retail or getting volume discounts/non-profit discounts and getting it directly from the manufacturer, as it avoids any potential liscensing issues. However if its something for home use, buying software on ebay can be an effective cost saver.

Just remember, especially in context of ebay, if it looks too good to be true, it probably is, and something is probably very very shady.

-bob