With the advent of the Internet, it has undoubtedly become easier to access and spread illicit software. Since many of these sites were also connected to each other by FidoNet nodes, it was possible to obtain serial numbers and programs from sites outside the immediate vicinity. H owever, this distribution network for software has come under a lot of pressure over the past few years. In the mid-nineties the BSA launched an offensive against such distribution networks of illicit software centered around BBS networks, namely those with FidoNet nodes. This action against FidoNet in Hungary is not something particular to Central and Eastern Europe, but is part of a much larger yet discreet campaign.
T here are a variety of reasons why illicit software is so widespread in Central and Eastern Europe.
Foremost is the economic factor. In relation to local salaries, software is very expensive for the individual user. In Hungary, for example, a copy of Win95 equals approximately one month's pay at the minimum wage. But even for those who can comfortably afford it, there are other reasons for seeking out and using illicit software. For some, it is the thrill and challenge of cracking the programs.