Is a Bonchon franchisee allowed to reverse engineer the Paytronix software?
Bonchon Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Restrictions. Except as specifically permitted in this Agreement, Franchisee shall not (a) use any of Paytronix's Proprietary Information to create any software or other materials (whether or not competitive with or similar to the Software), (b) reverse engineer or otherwise try to discover any source code or underlying ideas or algorithms of the Software, (c) sublicense, transfer or distribute the Software, (d) copy (except for reasonable backup or archive purposes) or modify any Software, (e) alter or remove any proprietary or legal notice contained on or in the Software, or (f) use the Software, or allow the transfer, transmission, export or re-export of all or any part of the Software, in violation of any export control laws or regulations of the United States or any other relevant jurisdiction.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 92–536)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Bonchon's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are explicitly prohibited from reverse engineering the Paytronix software. The agreement states that franchisees cannot attempt to discover the source code, underlying ideas, or algorithms of the software. This restriction is in place to protect Paytronix's proprietary rights and intellectual property.
This restriction means a Bonchon franchisee must use the Paytronix software as it is provided and cannot modify or create derivative works from it. The franchisee is also prohibited from sublicensing, transferring, or distributing the software. Any attempt to reverse engineer or modify the software would be a breach of the franchise agreement.
Bonchon takes measures to prevent unauthorized use or distribution of its software. The franchisee is responsible for maintaining the security of the software and preventing unauthorized access. This includes implementing proper audit controls, choosing secure passwords, and limiting access to authorized employees. The franchisee must also advise Bonchon immediately if they suspect any unauthorized use or disclosure of the software.
These stipulations are typical in franchise agreements involving software, as franchisors need to protect their intellectual property and maintain uniformity across the franchise system. Prospective Bonchon franchisees should understand these restrictions and ensure they have the technical support and training necessary to use the software effectively without needing to modify it.