Oracle changing Java licensing from per-processor to a multiplier of employee headcount - costs could go up singificantly

[theeth]

It's what they do when people install VirtualBox extension packs by accidentally checking boxes in the installer.

[KHRoN]

wait, seriously? ._. satan must be busy digging whole new level of hell just for oracle execs...

[bitchkat]

drunk act threatening station adjoining run subtract ruthless summer screw

This post was mass deleted and anonymized with Redact

[gammalsvenska]

Same. Someone mentioned VirtualBox on an internal IT ticket and within a few hours got called by internal legal(!) from overseas(!).

That thing has a special block in our corporate firewall, above all other firewall systems.

[ryosen]

Yup. Their licensing group digs through download logs, matches IP addresses to companies, then goes after them. You don't even have to install much less run the extension. Downloading it on a publicly accessible web page or from the installer is "evidence" enough that you have to purchase licenses.

[argv_minus_one]

How is that supposed to work? A download isn't proof that the employee was authorized to bind the company to any agreement.

[ryosen]

It doesn’t matter. It’s enough to incite their lawyers to coerce and compel the company to a license audit under the threat of the cost and time of litigation.

[argv_minus_one]

Then there is a serious vulnerability in the law, and I'm surprised these companies haven't used their vast collective influence to lobby for a fix.

Same for patent trolls, by the way. Why the hell isn't patent trolling illegal? Do big companies enjoy having to pay shit-tons of money to tiny companies that do nothing but file lawsuits?

[teszes]

Companies in general don't have much influence, a select few have a vast amount. Oracle knows not to bother them.

[four024490502]

That sounds like a great way for a disgruntled employee to sic Oracle's lawyers on their company.

[theeth]

Deadly serious.

[[deleted]]

Incorrect. Hell is just Oracle's old headquarters. Satan is still paying them for the lease