And with no/low licensing fees.

Fucking noted, y’all.

Ransomware?

Bingo.

It is likely that they have burned friends out one by one and all they have left is you. BUT, you have to have your boundaries.

It sounds like they need therapy and possibly medication, if I am reading between the lines here. That would be the first step to changing the pattern for them. Unfortunately, all you can do is recommend things. They have to take the next steps.