jfernand@m.cs.uiuc.edu (09/11/90)
Recently, I've encountered stick-on labels on software boxes indicating distribution restrictions such as: "For distribution in the USA and Canada only" "USA [and Canada] version" "For use in the USA and Canada only" (Turbo C++) "For distribution outside the USA and Canada ONLY" (Funnily, I found this label on a MS Quick C box in a Champaign, IL store.) 1. My first question is, what are the reasons behind these distribution restrictions? (I am aware of the restrictions regarding encryption software). 2. If I buy such restricted software in the states, can I take it out of the country? I am considering buying Turbo C++ but am not sure if I can (legitimately) take it out of the states. 3. Do all such software have "export versions?" 4. Finally, can anyone tell me what the restrictions are (please quote) for Microsoft C v6.0? (I can't find one in a local store). J.R.Fernandez jfernand@cs.uiuc.edu
ns@maccs.dcss.mcmaster.ca (Nick Solntseff) (09/12/90)
The last time I needed to find out what restrictions were in force with regard to software, I had to call the Office of Munitions Control in the Pentagon. The local US Consulate did not know any details. The restrictions are imposed by the US Government and NATO and are generally referred to as COCOM regulations. (I do not know, off hand, what COCOM stands for.) YES, it is illegal under US or NATA member country laws to export restricted items, where export includes even letting non-US or non-NATO citizens have access WITHIN THE USA OR NATO countries. The product referred to above has to be kept under lock and key whenever a non-US or non-Canadian citizen could get their dirty hands on it! By the way, COCOM restrictions change from time to time. The last change I know of was about two months ago and, among other things, allowed export of 2400-baud modems to the USSR.