MS To Limit Security Fixes to Legal Copies of Windows

rufey writes "An Associated Press artcile on MSNBC is reporting that Microsoft is going to start restricting access to security updates from pirated copies of its Windows operating systems. Starting in mid 2005, if you have a pirated copy of Windows, the only way to obtain security updates will be through the automatic updates mechanism. And even that method may be restricted at a future date. The article is light on details about what versions of Windows this will affect. Parts of the system to check for a valid copy of Windows is already used when downloading software (such as Media Player) from Microsoft - except that validation is currently optional." EnderWigginsXenocide points out Reuters' version of the story.

Comments

Way to go !

[thrill12]

Now we can be sure that viruses and spyware remain a pest for the remainder of the Windows-era.

In any case, this will quicken the demise of Windows, rather than strengthen it :)

Re:Several HUGE differences

[shird]

Except that if you cant prove that you have the license to use it, then no, technically you dont have the right to use it.

You dont have the right to drive around when you have lost your drivers license and cant prove that you are licensed (ie have no ID they can look up in a database to see if you are).

Its very different if you can prove it, by a reciept or have registered online etc. But if you can't, why should they just assume you are licensed? When thats the only thing thats different between you and a 'criminal, you have a responsibility to make sure you can prove it.

You cant just draw $20 on a piece of paper and say you lost the original and use that to pay the bank.