MaltaToday previous editions

MT 29 June 2014

Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/337883

Contents of this Issue

Navigation

Page 39 of 55

Events 40 maltatoday, Sunday, 29 June 2014 Computer users cite the risk of se- curity threats from malware as the top reason not to use unlicensed software. Among their specific con- cerns are intrusions by hackers and loss of data. Yet a striking 44 percent of the software installed on personal computers in Malta in 2013 was not properly licensed. These and other findings released today in the BSA Global Software Survey underscore the need for ef- fective software management prac- tices, especially in business settings. "Most people don't know what is installed on their systems. That needs to change," said BSA President & CEO Victoria Espinel. "There are common-sense steps managers and administrators can take to make sure their organizations are using genuine, properly licensed soft- ware." The BSA Global Software Survey is conducted every other year for BSA by IDC, which this year polled com- puter users in 34 markets including nearly 22,000 consumer and busi- ness PC users and more than 2,000 IT managers. Among the findings: The rate at which PC software was installed without proper licensing in Malta was 44 percent in 2013, a percentage point increase over 2011. The commercial value of that unli- censed software totaled €3.6 mil- lion. The chief reason computer users around the world cite for not us- ing unlicensed software is avoid- ing security threats from malware. Among the risks associated with unlicensed software, 64 percent of users globally cited unauthorized access by hackers as a top concern and 59 percent cited loss of data. IT managers around the world express understandable concern that unlicensed software may cause harm, yet less than half say they are very confident that their company's software is properly licensed. Only 35 percent of companies glo- bally have written policies in place requiring use of properly licensed software. BSA in Malta is currently promot- ing awareness about the security risks associated with the use of unli- censed software and it will be seek- ing the collaboration of the Maltese Government in order to do so. "Unlicensed software use is an organizational governance issue — and this study shows there is a clear need for improvement," said Espinel. "There are basic steps any company can take to ensure it is fully compli- ant, like establishing a formal policy on licensed software use and main- taining careful records. "Companies also should consider implementing more robust soft- ware asset management programs that follow internationally-accepted guidelines. These SAM programs can deliver substantial value by en- suring adequate controls are in place to provide a full view into what is in- stalled on a network. "That helps organizations avoid security and operational risks, and it ensures they have the right number of licenses for their users." The global rate at which PC soft- ware was installed without proper licensing rose from 42 percent in 2011 to 43 percent in 2013 as emerg- ing economies where unlicensed software use is most prevalent con- tinued to account for a growing ma- jority of all PCs in service. The commercial value of unli- censed PC software installations to- taled $62.7 billion globally in 2013. A full copy of BSA's Global Soft- ware Survey, including country- specific data, is available for down- load on BSA's website: www.bsa.org/ globalstudy With the eager participa- tion of its employees who donated money and who al- so took part in the Puttinu Cares 60-hour football and volleyball marathon, held between 6 and 8 June, Malta Communications Authority has collected the sum of €950 in support of this charitable cause. "MCA collaborates regu- larly with several entities as part of its cor- porate social responsibilit y prog r a m me," said Sharon Scerri, Execu- tive Coordi- nator. "This time, our f o r m i d a b l e team of pro- fessional indi- viduals have come together to support Puttinu Cares' dream to col- lect enough funds in order to sponsor all the patients' accommodation when they need to go abroad for treat- ment." This goes in line with MCA's mission statement, which aims to facilitate the development of an environ- ment that is conducive to investment, innovation and continued social and eco- nomic growth. George Mangion, senior part- ner of PKF Malta has attended the EMEI Regional Meeting and Technical Experts Meet- ing in Madrid where he was officially appointed member of the Global Council within the PKF International (PKFI) network. This council is formed from 8 members from USA, 2 from UK, 2 from Germany, 2 from Mexico, and members from other countries like Kenya, Jordan, Australia, Chile Spain, Russia, Italy Malaysia, Hong Kong and China The charter (function) of the Global Council is to serve as the "eyes and ears" of the membership and provide in- put to the Executive Board as to the needs of our glo- bal membership and also to take information back to the membership. The Global Council serves as an adviser to the PKFI Board by giving guidance and feedback as to the needs of the membership. The GC serves as a key source to serve on Service Committees such as Strategic Planning Com- mittee, Global Symposium Committee and other com- mittees as needed within the PKF International (PKFI) network. PKF International Limited (PKFI) administers the PKF network of legally independ- ent member firms. There are around 300 member firms and correspondents in 440 locations in around 125 countries providing account- ing and business advisory services. PKF International member firms have $2.68 billion ag- gregate fee income (year end June 2012) and the network is a member of the Forum of Firms – an organisation dedi- cated to consistent and high quality standards of financial reporting and auditing prac- tices worldwide Dracula, the story of the Transylva- nian vampire count, is well known to many. In this new adaptation, to be broadcast on every Sunday from 6 July at 9.45pm on GO Stars, the sto- ry is given a more modern twist in a late 19th Century London setting. Michele Dandria, Manager - Con- tent and Digital Media at GO, said, "When we think of Dracula we think of crumbling castles, bats and coffins. But the new Dracula, star- ring Golden Globe winner Jonathan Rhys Meyers is a completely differ- ent interpretation. "This new version, which has been widely acclaimed for its cinematog- raphy, sees Dracula in London pos- ing as an American industrialist and living in the most sumptuous mansion. GO Stars subscribers can look forward to 10 episodes of this twisted and sophisticated take on Bram Stoker's classic novel." In addition to Jonathan Ryhs Mey- ers, who rose to stardom in The Tu- dors, Dracula also stars Jessica De Gouw, Thomas Kretschmann, Vic- toria Smurfit, Oliver Jackson-Co- hen, Nonso Anozie, Katie McGrath and Ben Miles. Produced by the same production company that created Downton Ab- bey and using some 150 different sets, the series depicts a character who is especially interested in the new technology of electricity, use- ful for someone who avoids the sun. But Dracula has another reason for being in London, revenge on those who cursed him with immortality centuries earlier. "GO Stars is the home of great TV and the best movies throughout the year. This July, we will continue to bring new, high quality productions such as Dracula, for our subscribers to enjoy," continued Dandria. More information on GO Stars which is available from as little as €6.99 per month can be obtained from all GO retail outlets and exclu- sive resellers, by calling Freephone 80072121 or visiting www.go.com. mt. Terms and conditions apply BSA survey finds unlicensed software use at 44 percent, despite security concerns New Dracula series premieres on GO Stars MCA collects €950 for Puttinu Cares PKF Malta senior partner appointed member of the Global Council of PKF International network George Mangion

Articles in this issue

Archives of this issue

view archives of MaltaToday previous editions - MT 29 June 2014