Slashdot Mirror


Microsoft to Disable Online Windows Activation

CasterPod writes "As of February 28, Windows users who purchased their PC will no longer be able to reinstall without calling Microsoft and answering a series of questions. The move is part of an anti-piracy effort to close 'a loophole that enabled unscrupulous resellers to use Windows XP product keys that were stolen from large OEMs.' Specifically, Certificate of Authenticity (COA) labels on PCs are often unused because OEMs preinstall Windows and bypass product activation. The product keys can therefore be stolen and reused. First WGA, and now this."

3 of 1,067 comments (clear)

  1. Re:Good Move Microsoft!!!! by anopres · · Score: 0, Troll

    Please. Roughly half of all Americans are complete idiots. (You decide which half)

    --
    Strong Mad - 2008: "I PRESIDENT!"
  2. Re:Good Move Microsoft!!!! by Cro+Magnon · · Score: 0, Troll

    See my sig. :)

    --
    Slow down, cowboy! It has been 4 hours since you last posted. You must wait another few hours.
  3. You by Professor+S.+Brown · · Score: 0, Troll

    Your name, your sig, and your entire personality = twat

    --
    Shitram Brown, PhD
    Professor of Mathematics