Code Stolen and Threatening to Release

[Feriscool]

A couple days ago, someone hacked into one of my developer's accounts where he was able to steal the source code for a game myself and about 8 others have been working on. He has been threatening to release it if I don't send him money.

Questions:

1. Is source code automatically copyrighted by me?
2. What can happen to the hacker, in the law, if he releases the source code?
3. What are the consequences of releasing our source code?
4. What should I do?

Thank you,
Feriscool.

 

[Mass_Shyster]

The penalty for theft

The Qur'an and several hadith set out two different punishments for theft (stealing). They say that the punishment should depend on how many times the person stole, and what he stole. One punishment is imprisonment. Another is amputating (cutting off) the hands or feet. However, before a person is punished, two eyewitnesses must swear, under oath, that they saw the person stealing. If this does not happen, then the punishment cannot be carried out. Also, some other requirements have to be met. These requirements have to do with the theft, what was stolen, and how the theft happened. All of these requirements must be met, as decided by a judge.

 

[Feriscool]

The penalty for theft

The Qur'an and several hadith set out two different punishments for theft (stealing). They say that the punishment should depend on how many times the person stole, and what he stole. One punishment is imprisonment. Another is amputating (cutting off) the hands or feet. However, before a person is punished, two eyewitnesses must swear, under oath, that they saw the person stealing. If this does not happen, then the punishment cannot be carried out. Also, some other requirements have to be met. These requirements have to do with the theft, what was stolen, and how the theft happened. All of these requirements must be met, as decided by a judge.

We have those requirements.

 

[Zigner]

We have those requirements.

So, is the Qur'an the controlling law in your country? If so, it seems that you have a great case.

 

[LeeHarveyBlotto]

What should I do?

Thank you,
Feriscool.

You should name your state as required by forum rules.

 

[Feriscool]

You should name your state as required by forum rules.

If only I lived in the USA. I live in Canada.

 

[ecmst12]

This forum deals with US law only. That's why the state is required. You would need to find a canadian law site, or a canadian lawyer. Maybe you hadn't noticed, but the laws in different countries are very different.

 

[Feriscool]

This forum deals with US law only. That's why the state is required. You would need to find a canadian law site, or a canadian lawyer. Maybe you hadn't noticed, but the laws in different countries are very different.

The hacker lives in the USA.

 

[ecmst12]

How do you know?

 

[Feriscool]

How do you know?

He basically gave away his IP address, I traced it, and it landed in the USA.

 

[ecmst12]

That doesn't mean he lives here, and it CERTAINLY doesn't mean you can identify him.