craig@x.UUCP (Craig Lund) (11/14/84)
Many of the better programs distributed through net.sources contain copyright messages. Usually "all rights" are "reserved". Legally, when my machine copies the software, I am breaking the law. I assume that an implicit right is granted to copy and use net.sources software on the machine which I have attached to the network. However, I can only assume that the copyright message forbids providing the programs (at no charge) to my customers. No matter what the author intends, by placing a copyright message in their source code, they are inhibiting further distribution and use of their software package. I would like to request that software posted to net.sources contain no copyright notices. If a copyright notice is necessary, a paragraph describing the distribution rights granted would be greatly appreciated. REPLIES SHOULD BE POSTED ONLY TO NET.LEGAL, NOT NET.SOURCES