Microsoft has begun a program that will ask its users to participate in a license check on its main download site. Users, who do choose to participate, will have to wait briefly while the license is checked before going on to download their desired updates. Even if a license comes up invalid, the user will still be able to download the updates, but will be encouraged to bring their Software/PC back to the manufacturer and also given information on where to buy legitimate software. The program is not compulsory; it is completely up to the user whether or not to participate.
Microsoft are hoping that 20,000 people will participate in the program, which could take anywhere from six weeks to three months estimated. After that period of time, Microsoft will decide how they could improve the program and whether or not they will make it mandatory to all web site visitors. At the moment, the users being targeted are those who might have bought new PC's or new Operating Systems that could turn out to be pirated. Microsoft is not limiting access to any of it's downloads, including Windows XP Service Pack 2, which it encourages all users to upgrade to. However, some known pirated registration codes have been blocked out completely by the SP2 download.
It is estimated that piracy is costing software companies in excess of $29 billion each year. These steps taken by Microsoft might be brought on by more companies if this program is successful and could change the way the software companies operate in these days, where piracy figures are higher than ever.
Source:
News.com
It is estimated that piracy is costing software companies in excess of $29 billion each year. These steps taken by Microsoft might be brought on by more companies if this program is successful and could change the way the software companies operate in these days, where piracy figures are higher than ever.
Source:
News.com
