From today, when a computer user starts to download updates, a program, called Windows Genuine Advantage, will scan the machine to see if it’s running a valid version of Microsoft's Windows platform.
After prompting customers that their operating systems need to be authenticated, the program will scan the computer, detecting the product number automatically.
If the program detects a counterfeit copy, it will offer two options. Customers who fill out a piracy report, provide proof of purchase and send in the counterfeit CDs, will get a free copy of Windows.
Those who simply submit a piracy report, giving details of when, where and from whom the operating system was purchased, and send in the counterfeit copy, will get Windows at half price.
The authentication process, optional until Monday, will in future be required for all software updates except security patches.
http://www.technewsworld.com/story/44962.html