Re: [tlug] GPL question (again!)

[Brian LaVallee <b.lavallee@example.com>]

On 9/8/14, 18:32, Josh Glover wrote:
> I have a completely hypothetical question for the GPL experts on the
> list (I'm looking at you, Steve).
>
> Let's say that some company has a piece of backend software with a
> REST interface. Let's also say that some idiotic developer stuck a GPL
> notice at the top of some of the source code files, despite the fact
> that no GPL code is linked in. This source has never been distributed
> in any way, nor have the compiled binaries. The binaries have only
> ever run on servers belonging to the hypothetical company for which
> the idiotic developer no longer works.
Are you completely, totally, absolutely, and 100% sure that zero (0) 
lines of GPL code have been used in the software?
> Can the company legally remove the GPL notice from the source files?
By including the GPL, the developer may actually be saying 'there is 
some GPL code used somewhere in this software'.

Legally, you can do whatever you want!

However, let's say the GPL is removed...  Many version later, the 
company decides to sell this backend software.  You could have serious 
legal headaches if a buyer stumbles across GPL code in the software and 
reports the violation.
> Cheers,
> Josh