What does the term piracy refer to?

Piracy refers to the act of attacking and robbing ships at sea or engaging in similar unlawful acts on the high seas. It encompasses not only the theft of goods but also the hijacking of vessels and the taking of hostages. In a broader context, the term can also apply to the unauthorized use or distribution of copyrighted material, such as software, music, and films. Overall, piracy is a violation of international law and is subject to prosecution by maritime authorities.