Microsoft has announced that it has settled 3,265 copyright infringement cases around the globe during the past year. At the end of its fiscal year on June 30, the cases totaled 35 across 19 U.S. states and 3,230 international cases across 42 countries. "Software counterfeiting negatively impacts local and global economic growth, stifles innovation, and puts consumers and businesses at risk," said David Finn, associate general counsel in the Microsoft Cybercrime Center.

The majority of Microsoft enforcement cases have resulted from consumer tips and reports, and since 2005, the company has heard from more than 450,000 customers who reported counterfeit software, which was often riddled with malware and viruses or did not work as they expected.

Among the settled cases was Microsoft’s agreement with the Ningbo Beyond Group of China, which had allegedly infringed the software company’s copyrights in Microsoft’s Windows, Office, Server and Visual Studio software.

"In addition to our other cases, Microsoft is pleased to have resolved this matter," Finn added. "We look forward to the Ningbo Beyond Group also resolving important claims filed this January by the California attorney general in a manner that ensures future compliance with California law and sets a positive example for Chinese companies doing business in California."