Jinhui Computer System Engineering Co and Dazheng Human Language Technology Co, Chinese developers of controversial software to filter pornography, may face legal action from the US makers of a similar Internet filter.

California-based software maker Solid Oak said it has "very solid evidence" to support charges of copyright infringement against the two Chinese companies and has sent cease and desist letters to Hewlett-Packard and Dell to stop distribution of computers with the software.

The company said it is also considering seeking an injunction in a US court.

The development puts in question the future of Green Dam-Youth Escort software, for which the government paid 41.7 million yuan, which it said must be included in all computers sold on the mainland from July 1.

Jenna DiPasquale, head of Solid Oak PR and marketing, said programming code from Solid Oak's CyberSitter program had been found in Green Dam software, which the government said is designed to protect youngsters from pornography and violence.

(China Daily 06/29/2009 page9)