Piracy watchdogs at the Federation Against Software Theft (FAST) are hailing their success as recovering $14,000 on behalf of independent software developer, Thomas Kelty, from a larger firm who attempted to rip him off.

Kelty, who specialises in technology for medical devices, contacted FAST in November 2002 on discovering the software he had developed was being used and distributed by a unnamed company.

Tut, tut.

This company had previously contracted Kelty's services, during which time he had worked hard to increase the likelihood of future work.

In March 2003, following various written communications, FAST agreed a settlement of $14,000. In addition, to protect Kelty's future, it assisted negotiation of terms to shield Kelty from further misuse of software.

Kelty praised FAST's help: "Throughout the four months of negotiation, FAST was persistent in its efforts - and was successful in obtaining settlement that was fair and just. The professional assistance with which FAST provided me has safeguarded my entire software development and intellectual property investment in my specialist area of medical devices."

Julian Heathcote Hobbins, Legal Counsel at FAST, added: "This is a classic case of a larger corporation attempting to steam-roller the smaller guy. Providing there is sufficient evidence, FAST will do everything to protect software developers, irrespective of their size."

FAST said the case demonstrates that it takes care of "David as well as Goliath".

Which is nice. ®

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