freeware- is it free to distribute?

[tdx999]

Hi,

I'm thinking of burning some CDs of freeware programs for a fund raiser. I have seen some conflicting info in regards to the distribution of freeware. Some say that it is freely distributed, others say that you need permission from the orginal programmer.

Before I go ahead with the project, does anyone have the "definative" truth on this matter. I certainly do not want to face any legal issues down the road.

Thanks in advance.

 

[IJump]

There is generally a readme file with each of the programs that tells how and where and by what means you can distribute it. If you are selling it, I would contact the author if you can and let them know that you are selling their program as part of a CD and the $ is going to whatever organization as part of a fund raiser....

 

[AnyMal]

If I am not mistaken you may not charge for the content (software distributed under freeware license must be provided at no charge), however you can levy a convinience charge (cost of a CD, preparation, packaging). In this case, you must display a disclaimer outlining the above and crediting content copyright owners. Hope this helps.

 

[n0cmonkey]

Originally posted by: AnyMal
If I am not mistaken you may not charge for the content (software distributed under freeware license must be provided at no charge), however you can levy a convinience charge (cost of a CD, preparation, packaging). Hope this helps.

It really depends on what the author intended.