[SoftwareBug2.0]

I understand that the unauthorized reproductions of the program violate copyright law.

However, I am not sure that thievery is a correct characterization.

According to some sources, such as the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, theft is:

"1 a : the act of stealing; specifically : the felonious taking and removing of personal property with intent to deprive the rightful owner of it b : an unlawful taking (as by embezzlement or burglary) of property"

Unlike larceny, copyright violation cannot deprive the owner of the work or its usage.

I also find it difficult characterize copyright violation as akin to embezzlement or burglary for I see the common denominator in those two terms as the removal or intent to remove from the owner some tangible possession.

Basically, here's what I think it comes down to: Physical objects are rival goods. Data are not.

I do not condone their actions. However, I do not believe that thievery or stealing is a correct characterization of their deeds.