What's up with the legal status of RC4

[Bill Moran]

I'm trying to implement encryption in PDF files ...

The PDF spec says to use RC4 to encrypt the data.  I've found some data on how
to do RC4 (perl & C) but there seems to (potentially) be a legal issue with
using it.

Anyone know the actual legal status of RC4?  Is it patented or anything.  Can
I legally implement it and sell software using it?  I've seen mention of ARC4
(the "Alleged RC4" algorithm) and it seems like mumbo-jumbo to keep folks out
of jail or court.  Anyone have any pointers to FAQs on this or know what's up?

-- 
Bill Moran
Potential Technologies
http://www.potentialtech.com