Microsoft Corp. today applauded the FBI in Los Angeles for its leadership following a two-year investigation undertaken in a significant partnership with Microsoft and other industry investigators that has resulted in the largest seizure of counterfeit Microsoft� software and components to date.

The investigation culminated in a federal grand jury returning an indictment against 11 individuals yesterday in Los Angeles. In late August, the FBI executed three search warrants and arrested 11 individuals in California, Washington and Texas. The individuals are allegedly responsible for a wide variety of software piracy operations, including unauthorized media replication, printing of counterfeit documentation and distribution of counterfeit software.

"The FBI's leadership has forged an unprecedented collaborative partnership between law enforcement and industry that has led to cracking this sophisticated case," said Rich LaMagna, director of worldwide investigations for the digital integrity group at Microsoft. "We are immensely appreciative of law enforcement's efforts. With this type of teamwork, we can successfully address cybercrime and fight the 21st-century tactics of today's criminals."