The Federation Against Software Theft (FAST) is to team up with Trading Standards in a pilot campaign based in Cardiff this summer.
One thousand companies in the Welsh capital are due to be sent advice on how to achieve compliance followed up by visitors from Trading Standards.
Trading Standards in Cardiff have stated they will be using a combination of guidance and education followed by spot checks later in the year. This follows a change in the law last year together with financial support from the Treasury that allows Trading Standards the right to search premises without a warrant.John Lovelock from FAST said “We can choose which business to go and knock on the door once they have had the letter and given time to consider their position” This adds considerable weight and relevance to the Federation’s activities, and will hopefully result in positive education for companies and reduced piracy rates. Let’s hope this real activity marks the end of FAST’s mindless PR campaigns.