In the last InfoSource Newsletter, we discussed the importance of maintaining proper licenses for all of the software used by you or your company. Failing to do so puts you at great risk of legal action, and will ultimately cost you far more money than if you had simply purchased software licenses as required. What many don't realize is that the same rules that apply for software also apply for fonts.
Fonts licenses are probably the most abused of all computer licenses. Because they don't require any sort of security or authorization code, fonts are frequently copied and shared both within companies and with colleagues, with no regard for the associated software licenses. Most computer users are probably completely unaware that fonts even have software licenses, as the user very rarely sees them.
Font licenses vary from typeface to typeface and from foundry to foundry. Using Adobe as an example, most of their individual fonts include a license for use on up to five computers. Adobe's Font Folio---their full collection of typefaces---includes a license for up to 20 computers. License upgrades can be purchased, allowing you to use the font on additional computers.
To help yourself become and remain legal:
- Only use fonts that you have a license for
- Don't alter a font without prior permission
- Don't give fonts to those without a proper license
- You may embed a font in a file for printing/viewing
MacMedics can help you assess your current font situation, as well as help develop a strategy to keep you legal. Contact your representative to discuss details or to arrange for an on-site assessment.
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