Autodesk sent messages to users of all versions of AutoCAD in Russia about the inability to operate the software due to an invalid license. This was reported by several users of the program on Twitter and on thematic websites.
According to one of the users, due to the ban on the use of software in Russia, Autodesk considers all installed versions to be pirated.
AutoCAD is a product of the American company Autodesk, which develops computer-aided design systems for construction and industrial design. In March 2022, Autodesk announced the suspension of work in Russia, in October 2023 it liquidated the Russian legal entity, and from March 20, 2024 it banned Russian companies from using its products. Before this, AutoCAD could still be installed under a license.
The ban on the use of Autodesk products is associated with the 12th package of EU sanctions against Russia. It prohibits the sale, supply, transfer, and export of industrial design software.
AutoCAD is one of Autodesk's most popular design programs, used by architects, engineers, and industrial designers, among others. In Russia, the share of Autodesk products reached 80-90% in construction design, RBC wrote.