Q: What type of audits does Adobe conduct?

A: Adobe either uses third parties, like the BSA or SIIA, to conduct audits or it elects to conduct an audit directly.

Q: What legal authority does Adobe have to conduct audits?

A: Typically, the standard Adobe software license contains an audit provision allowing Adobe to request that a customer provide records demonstrating its compliance.

Q: How does the BSA or the SIIA have the right to audit me for Adobe software?

A: Adobe provided the BSA and the SIIA with powers of attorney to investigate claims of license infringement.

Q: What is Adobe looking for in an audit?

A: Adobe reviews environments to determine whether all the upgraded licenses have appropriate qualifying underlying licenses, whether any of the serial numbers are suspected to be illegitimate, and whether any of the file paths demonstrate a suspected pirated version of the software.

Q: I have been audited by Adobe, what should I do next?

A: If you have been audited by Adobe, you should seek experienced counsel to advise you regarding your rights and responsibilities. Our lawyers have handled over 500 software audit matters and can guide you through every step of the Adobe audit process.

Q: Should I provide the records Adobe is requesting?

A: Although customers are typically under a legal obligation to respond to the audit, it is critical to ensure that the audit materials prepared accurately reflect the installations and licenses across the network.

Q: I can’t find my license agreement or receipt, is there another way to demonstrate a valid license?

A: Occasionally, Adobe will accept valid, registered serial numbers as proof of ownership.

Q: What happens if I can’t settle my license dispute with Adobe?

A: Most software audits involving Adobe are settled out of court. Rarely, cases cannot be settled out of court. Our lawyers can assist you with evaluating litigation options involving Adobe.