[ Outline ] · Standard · Linear+ Microsoft: SP2 Will Not Install on Pirated Copies, May 11th, 2004, 4:33 AM

[Wiener3]

Contrary to the remarks it made to the ComputerTimes, Microsoft now claims that it will not permit users who have obtained Windows XP illegally to upgrade to its latest service release. Instead, the software giant will continue to enforce compliance with its licensing.

In a nutshell, Microsoft group product manager Barry Goffe told ComputerTimes that Windows XP Service Pack 2 would not exclude pirated copies from upgrading, and that it was more important to keep user safe than to be "concerned about the revenue issue."

To clarify its position, a Microsoft spokesperson told BetaNews, "Press reports indicating Windows XP Service Pack 2 will install on pirated or illegal copies of Windows XP are not entirely true. Prior to installing, SP2 will check the OS' product ID (PID) against a list of known pirated PIDs. If a PID is found to be invalid, SP2 will not install."

BetaNews confirmed the accuracy of the spokesperson's statement with a source within the company.

View more at http://www.betanews.com/article.php3?sid=1084264398

[ManX]

As of 11:30am PST (US), there is already a thread going on regarding the announcement by M$ that the Windows XP SP2 install will fail if the PID matches any known pirated/cracked installation. The gist of the thread I'm following is this:

"We already have a working patch for the SP2 update. The patch checks all known 'invalid' PIDs and will notify the user prior to the actual installation of SP2. The user then has the option to use our built-in tool to change their code to one that will be accepted by SP2 before installation proceeds. No reboot is required. We will update this tool as necessary as SP2 nears official release. Frodo Lives!"

Just thought folks might like to know that you won't even have to wait a few days or weeks to "update" to SP2. It is cracked even before release.

God loves hackers... :D
-ManX

P.S. -> Please don't ask me for more details. I will post them as all of this unfolds. I happen to be privy to an unusual source, and I WILL NOT be able to offer any further info regarding the source. When information is verified, I will let the forum know. -- Peace, Love, and lots of hot sex! -ManX