On Tue, 2005-07-26 at 17:53 +1000, Jeff Grima wrote: > Hello, > > This is my first post. I hope this is a good question. > > There is a business in Sydney that is re-branding SME (contribs.org aka > e-smith) and claiming it as there own. > > What (if any) is the best course of action to take against this company? > > A bit more information. > > This company sells pre-installed SMEserver linux boxes and sells > support. > > I know that is not a crime > and i know rebranding some FOSS software isnt a crime also > but the bad part is that they claim they developed the software inhouse. > > They prey on the NOT "linux-savvy" and their "ignorance" to the > technology. > > They also do a very poor job of supporting the product. > > I am not sure of the appropriateness of posting the companies details > here but I will do so if enough people think it is appropriate. > > Also I have alot more information regarding there services. > > > Thanks for your time, > Jeff Grima > It depends on what license the software was released under. If it's the GPL then the company has to provide the source along with the servers as well as keeping all copyright attributions.
There may be a case for deceptive practices if they have removed copyright notices and replaced them with their own. Have you tried talking with the company and finding out whether or not they are planning on meeting their requirements under the license? -- James Purser http://k-sit.com Skype: purserj1977 -- SLUG - Sydney Linux User's Group Mailing List - http://slug.org.au/ Subscription info and FAQs: http://slug.org.au/faq/mailinglists.html
