[oclug] SCO copies Linux code

[Dave O'Neill]

On Wed, Jun 11, 2003 at 11:08:01AM -0400, Mike_Kenzie at cscoop.ca wrote:
> Does the Change management software used for the kernel source keep
> track of who made the changes?

Well, "change management system" == "spare space in the brain of Linus"
for the first 10 years or so.  Bitkeeper does have some change info now,
but probably not on the level you're thinking of.

> I wonder if SCO will have to make their code public if this ever gets
> to trial?

Doubtful.  The evidence will likely be placed under seal, though if it
ever gets to trial, I'm certain that at least a few of the major kernel
developers will get subpoenaed to testify and likely end up seeing some
SCO code.

> At which point does code become copyrighted?  Is it during development
> or after it is published or released.

It's automatic upon authorship... copyrights don't even need to be
registered, though registering your copyright makes it easier to prove
ownership should the need arise.  I doubt that most source code ends up
being registered with a copyright office, though.

Dave
-- 
    ``A popular response is: "If you have nothing to hide, you have nothing
 ('>  to fear." [...] The truth is that we all do have something to hide, 
 //\  not because it's criminal or even shameful, but simply because it's 
 V_/_ private.'' - George Radwanski, Privacy Commissioner of Canada.