The source code is the bread and butter of every software company. As such, having your source code stolen must be one of the most frustrating experiences. What's the worst it can happen though?
1. Someone else uses it to build a clone of your software and make big money competing with you
Usually it takes time to transform source code into something that looks differently. But still, there are companies that do it. There are many companies secretly using GPL code for example.
Your options: If they start making big money, you can sue. That's if you can figure out it's your source code they're running.
2. Hackers use the source code to expose and/or exploit security holes in your software
This is nasty. Sometimes hackers will use these security holes silently and it will take a long time before you discover the problem. You might even get sued by compromised customers if you're not careful.
Your options: Keep a close relationship with your customers, ask them to submit problems about your software. Conduct regular security audits. Be serious about security and try to identify security holes internally or working with a specialized security expert.
3. Your competitor got their hands on your source code and they use it to improve their product
This can pose serious problems, especially if you have innovative technology that you invested a lot of money and effort into. However, usually it takes time to refactor source code and integrate it into another product. So it's not as bad as it seems.
Your options: If you can figure out they have stolen your source code, you have the law on your side. In order to protect innovative ideas, you can patent them.
Monday, May 21, 2007 8:18:49 PM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)
