AI tools such as GitHub Copilot are not creative geniuses – they copy! And they do so more frequently and more demonstrably than many people believe. Anyone who incorporates AI-generated code into their software today is often already acting with conditional intent – and making themselves vulnerable to claims for damages, injunctions, and even criminal consequences. We present current developments, figures on the frequency of plagiarism, and other prominent cases, shed light on the legal situation, and explain why companies urgently need to protect themselves. We provide clear answers to burning questions: Why does AI code become a liability risk? How can software manufacturers and purchasers still protect themselves? What technical and legal measures can prevent a ticking time bomb in your own product? Anyone who uses AI code carelessly in the future will be left to deal with the damage. We show you how to save yourself—before it's too late.
