Unlicensed Java Downloads:
- Oracle uses unlicensed Java downloads to push for Java SE purchases and retroactive fees.
- If logged in, they have data like IP addresses, timestamps, Java versions, and personal details.
- Records go back to 2015.
- Used in both soft and formal Java audit to justify licensing demands.
Has Oracle reached out to you about a Java license? Download our Oracle Java Audit white paper to learn how to respond and avoid common pitfalls.
In the white paper, we cover:
- Recommendations for responding to an Oracle soft audit
- Oracle’s soft audit process
- Oracle’s formal audit process
- The kind of data Oracle may have on your organization’s Java product downloads.
Unlicensed Java Downloads: What Data Does Oracle Have on Your Organization?
Oracle has been leveraging unlicensed Java downloads to push organizations into buying Java SE and paying for retroactive use. But what kind of data does Oracle have?
We know this because Oracle has shared these logs with some of our clients after we’ve pushed back on their claims of unlicensed Java use. The answer varies depending on the organization.
What Data Does Oracle Have?
1. Personal Information: For some organizations, Oracle might have personal details such as the email, first name, last name, and title of the person who downloaded Java, especially if the user was logged into an Oracle account at the time of download.
2. Technical Information: Oracle has more technical data for most organizations. This includes IP addresses, timestamps, the number of updates, operating systems, versions of Java downloaded, how many times Java was downloaded, and the frequency of these downloads. These records can date back as far as 2015.
What Organizations Should Be Aware Of
1. Initial Contact: When Oracle first contacts your organization, typically via email, it does not reveal all the data it has. It usually starts with an informal discussion. If the organization shows reluctance to purchase Java, Oracle then uses the detailed records to press its case, asking why the organization disputes the purchase given the evidence.
2. Uninstalling and Reinstalling Java: Be cautious if you uninstall Java and later download and update it with a licensable version. Oracle may return with demands, and you need a strategy to manage this situation effectively.
3. Use in Audits: Oracle uses these download records in both soft (informal checks) and formal audits. The sales team and formal auditors use this data as proof during the audit process.
Oracle is very likely to initiate legal proceedings against your organization is you do not respond to Oracle enquiries due to your organizations unlicensed use of Java.
Recommendations
Are you facing retroactive demands for licensing Java for past use? We have helped over 50 organizations facing these demands who did not want to purchase Java SE.
All have successfully avoided buying Java SE for past usage and have only bought what they needed going forward.
Steps to Take:
- Stop Communicating with Oracle Directly: Avoid direct communication with Oracle regarding these matters until you have a clear strategy.
- Contact Our Advisors: Reach out to us for expert advice. We can help your organization develop a communication and negotiation strategy to achieve your goals. Our advisors are experienced in handling Oracle’s demands and can guide you through the process.
Conclusion
Oracle’s tactics in using unlicensed Java downloads as leverage can be intimidating. Understanding what data they have and how they might use it is crucial for your organization’s strategy.
By being prepared and seeking professional help, you can navigate these challenges effectively and avoid unnecessary costs. Don’t face Oracle’s demands alone; contact our advisors to help protect your organization’s interests.
Make sure you read our inside story about Oracle large scale Java audit campaign.
