by Ina Fried
Hackers have managed to find a way around one of the key antipiracy protections built into Windows 7.
Ordinarily, the operating system requires users to activate their copy of Windows 7 within 30 days. However, a recently outlined method allows the normal notifications to be turned off.
The software doesn’t actually get confirmed as legitimate, but users are able to keep using the product indefinitely.
Microsoft confirmed on Friday it is aware of the technique, but said that it is working to shore up the activation procedure.
“We’re aware of this workaround and are already working to address it,” a Microsoft representative said in a statement, which also urged customers to only use genuine software, noting the fake stuff can contain malware and other bad things.
It’s the latest in a long history of cat-and-mouse moves between the makers of Windows and those who would rather not have to pay for the privilege.
During her years at CNET News, Ina Fried has changed beats several times, changed genders once, and covered both of the Pirates of Silicon Valley. These days, most of her attention is focused on Microsoft. E-mail Ina.
