Children could become criminals by downloading pirated software

CHILDREN could be drawn into crime simply by downloading software from the internet, according to business groups.

The warning came from Business Software Alliance who have urged adults to teach children that downloading pirated software is illegal. The international organisation is concerned about the growth of internet piracy involving children.

A number of cases have been taken in the UK, including one against a 16-year-old charged with selling pirated software on auction websites. In Switzerland, two juveniles have been prosecuted for online software sales and selling pirated software CDs.