GAO issues IP report on effects of counterfeit & piracy

CNet News reports that the GAO's recent report to Congress (41 page pdf) says that most of the published information, anecdotal evidence, and records show that piracy is a drag on the U.S. economy, tax revenue, and in some cases potentially threatens national security and public health. But the problem is, according to the GAO, the data used to quantify piracy isn't reliable. The GAO report sees problems with the methodology used in studies that Hollywood and the recording industry have long relied on to support claims that piracy is destructive to their businesses. The GAO even notes the existence of data that shows piracy may benefit consumers in some cases.