Stained Windows! Microsoft to mark illegal copies

[EzyStvy]

Stained Windows! Microsoft to mark illegal copies

PIRATED software users be warned. Microsoft Corp is going to start “nagging” Windows users who do not have a legitimate copy of its operating system (OS). Starting today, the software giant will permanently flag personal computers that are not running a genuine copy of Windows.

[doctorgonzo]

So that's the update that I had to install today. Interesting.

[jayb1234]

Fine with me. Maybe it will embarrass some of the people running a pirated OS into going legit. And at least it will help identify some of the sellers.

[Panama Red]

Interesting. That was an article from Malaysia. I just ran the updates a few minutes ago but unchecked the Genuine Advantage Tool even tho I'm running a legit copy of XP Home. Wonder if it will nag me to download it again. I checked the box to not offer this update again.

[EzyStvy]

I did the update this morning without issue. (as expected)

[bill_bright]

Fine with me too. I applaud MS and wish they would get more aggressive - I understand even if you download the tool, there is an option to disable the nagging - for now.

The problem is that many of the pirated copy users refuse to run Windows Update for whatever reason, whether it is fear of being caught, or fear of being disabled. Unfortunately, that amounts to millions of illegal copies out there - and the real problem is that those unpatched and out of date PCs are prime targets for badguys to infect, hijack, and turn into zombies as malware distributors against the rest of us. That puts Microsoft between a rock and hard spot. Don't allow the critical updates, and more machines become hijacked. Allow the updates, and more folks see little reason to seek alternatives.

IMO, with several FREE OS and Office alternatives out there, there is just no excuse for stealing licenses.

[AMD]

Hi all,

Yeah i just come across this article.

Me myself dont sopport those people who use pirated copys of windows but I give it 10 days from release before someone figures out how to stop the notifications, or stop the verification process all together.

I dont have to worry though as like many people in here (I hope ) Use a genuine version of Xp home and updates have never been a problem for me.

[Mesaeus]

There will be quite some people marching angrily to their local shady pc store tomorrow