engineering ethics

Study case: ABC is a large company that sells computers, computer components, and software. Mohammed is hired as an entry-level software engineer at ABC. His first project was to assist in writing the code for ABC new hard disc controller. He had previously worked on a similar system interning at a start-up and had written a code which greatly enhanced the performance of their product. Mohammed quietly re-uses this same code in the ABC product, and does not think to tell anyone that he has used the code from his last job. His direct manager, Abdullah, is thrilled with the speed improvements this code brings to the product. Before the product is released, it went through a review by Abdullah. During the review of the product, it was found the code which Mohammed developed had been copyrighted by the startup he had previously worked for. Even though Mohammed had developed the code, his previous company still owned the intellectual property rights to it. When his manager informed Mohammed of the problem, Mohammed admits he did not realize he had made a mistake because he was not familiar with copyright laws. Mohammed then goes on to explain that the start-up he used to work for is now out of business and is unsure if ABC would be able to get in contact with the owner of the copyright. If ABC can't use Mohammed's code, then it will have to rewrite the entire code of the product, delaying its release by many months. Imagine that they can get away with the legal issues. What should Mohammad and Abdullah about this situation