Encryption and export laws?

[keithglong]

Hi All,

I was just wondering if anyone out there has had any experience with legal issues regarding the distribution of software with encryption? Let's say (for example) you have an app that encrypts notes for the user using Blowfish 128-bit encryption (as opposed to a 64-bit cipher type)... Would there be legal hurdles to placing your app into an app store?

Having done a bit of initial research, I see some conflicting information but realize that in some cases an Export Commodity Classification Number (ECCN) is required (i.e, at least for developers in the United States).

See: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Export_of_ ... ted_States
(scroll down and read the paragraph under Current Status)

and

http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library ... 94069.aspx


Incidentally, because the LiveCode IDE itself includes encryption capabilities, I wonder if LiveCode itself might be restricted from distribution in some cases?

Just trying to make sense of everything as I am working on an app that will encrypt information for the user...

Your feedback is most welcome.

Thanks,

- Boo
Gulf Breeze, Florida

[Mark]

Hi Boo,

Yes, LiveCode is under restriction just like any other product and you should adhere to the UN sanction list. If you're in the USA, you should probably also adhere to the US government's blacklist (but that's no issue for me). Apparently,LiveCode's EULA doesn't say anything about this.

This is an interesting list. It says I can compile software and send it to Cuba, but you can't.
Edit: I'm not entirely sure if all US trade with Cuba is still forbidden, but I would assume so.

Kind regards,

Mark

[keithglong]

Thanks Mark. I plan to research the situation further and will be sure to conform to any necessary regulations.

BTW: Great job on your book! (I recently purchased a copy.)

Cheers from Florida,

- Boo