MS really actually really not going to patch pirated Windows
by Ryan Block 
posted Jan 26th 2005 at 10:56AM
Microsoft and antipiracy, those are some chewy words in our mouths. Surprise! Redmond's launching yet another antipiracy campaign, this time called Windows Genuine Advantage (oh, how perfectly Freudian). The premise is that from summer this year on, all those Windows XP boxes out there will actually have to authenticate to receive software updates and security fixes—naturally authentication can't occur on what can be identified as pirated MS software. And we're totally sure no one will ever figure out a way to bypass the authentication, or repackage the updates, just like no one ever figured out how to break XP's product registration scheme. Microsoft: 1, Pirates: 0.
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Acariquara @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
Oh my goodness!! Is it the same Windows Genuine Advantage that forbids my pirated XP serial to download Giant^H^H^H^H^HMicrosoft Antispyware and WMP10 updates? The SAME ONE that my XP serial ALREADY bypassed? :)
It is already fux0r3d. If you get a XP keygen that generates serial #'s in the 640 range, you are probably fine.
Oh, and fp.
Dennis @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
I say
Pirates won, Micro$oft 0
Pirates will continue to defeat things like this, it will only make it harder on legit users of their software.
Pedro @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
When I got to a site to download that has a "microsoft authorized" they are currently optional. While it's badly written to make you think that you need to authenticate your copy, you can also just go ahead and not authenticate. Are they now going to make that process mandatory?
Paul @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
Ms will never win just look take big comapnies with loads of XP pro machines they will never find the time to validate all of those machines. I am all for having legit Windows but it will hit paygin customers harder. Most of my mates wouldn't know what to do if it said validate windows they would probably shut down windows.
It will end up hitting MS hard.
roo @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
Leave it to Microsoft to create software with gaping security holes, and use those security holes to strong arm pirates.
That's just hilarious.
StevenA @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
Here's a thought. Why doesn't Microsoft take a page from the MP3 download sites? Sell the operating system for a very low price, or even give it away. Then charge some small nominal fee such as $0.99 for each patch that is downloaded. The fee for each individual download will be too small for most people to worry about, but at the rate that Microsoft releases fixes, they'll make back their money in no time.
Benoit Gariod @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
That just means pirated machines will keep flooding everyone when the next replicating worm breaks out. MS considers bottom-line over security as a whole.
JasonQG @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
From what I've been reading elsewhere, Windows Update will still work. It' just things on the MS site you manually download that will require authentication.
...for now
juliuss @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
Of course the issue here is that having millions of un-patched machines on the network means a worse experience for *all* users, even those who are legit windows users. For example:
1) More spam for all.
2) More DoS attacks for all websites.
3) More viruses (even for legit users who are bad about keeping their machine patched).
Microsoft should know that this kind of action will hurt their sales in the long run by alienating paying customers. (You think that the corporation that just bought 10,000 copies of Windows is going to care about Microsoft's antipiracy efforts when millions of unpatched PCs are DoSing their homepage and spamming their employees? Probably not.)
canbebesi @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
LOL... Sarcasm killed the cat
jzderf @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
seems like sarcasm s flown over the heads of readers yet again.
ahem *dennis* ahem.Fo
av4rice @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
Seems like everyone recognizes the obvious sarcasm and is merely agreeing with the hidden message.
ahem *jzderf*
Sam Darranger @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
Obviously Ryan Block is locked in a closet somewhere. XP registration has been cracked for quite awhile now and the WMP10 updates are unphased by the registration crack software. Ryan needs to load a fresh copy of XP on a pc and grab some software anyone can obtain from say, BearShare, using the key words "XP Key Changer". A whole nother world exists out there when it comes to ANY MS product and MS's infinte wisdom of "product registration". There are people out there who make it their life's ambition to cracking MS registration. And to date their is no MS product that has not been registration cracked.
John T. Haller @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
Actually, it seems Microsoft *WILL* allow pirated copies to download updates using Automatic Update... ie, the critical stuff. Pirated copies just *WON'T* be able to use regular Windows Update to download driver updates and add-ons like .NET, Windows Media Player, ActiveX, etc. Microsoft will also probably release some free utilities available only to legit owners.
This seems like a good compromise because it will keep the pirated copies patched against the nasty vulnerabilities but not allow them to upgrade their software to better versions. And, yes, most techies will be able to get "around" the blocks... but most regular Joes with a pirated copy that a buddy gave/installed for them won't.
dnotes @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
buy a mac mini :) $499
silence @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
StevenA, that's the same as giving away a car for free and selling just brakes for profit. no money = no brakes.
a perfect business model, what can i say.
i just hope John T. Haller is right.
David @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
[quote]
Actually, it seems Microsoft *WILL* allow pirated copies to download updates using Automatic Update... ie, the critical stuff. Pirated copies just *WON'T* be able to use regular Windows Update to download driver updates and add-ons like .NET, Windows Media Player, ActiveX, etc. Microsoft will also probably release some free utilities available only to legit owners.
This seems like a good compromise because it will keep the pirated copies patched against the nasty vulnerabilities but not allow them to upgrade their software to better versions. And, yes, most techies will be able to get "around" the blocks... but most regular Joes with a pirated copy that a buddy gave/installed for them won't.
[/quote]
Not at all... it's a bad thing for Microsoft... and not because of all garbage in the comments above this either.
Do you recall Steve Ballmer dancing around shouting Developers Developers Developers? That is why this is important.
If the additional features of new technologies in things like .Net Framework or WMP are not bundled, then I as a developer cannot rely on them being there.
If I cannot rely on the existence of a particular feature, I have to change the way in which I develop. And usually this means that I have to find some library that I can bundle into my app that will achieve what I want.
Now for the doubly funny line... If I can't do what I want and NEED to go fetch a library... I'm going to opt for an Open Source library, such as SharpZipLib for creating Zip files. However, as soon as I do this, the question comes up: Why am I developing in C# or VB.Net when I am now using third party libraries?
The answer is that it doesn't make sense to do that. It is better for me to develop in Java and use Java libraries and classes to achieve my goal. Not only will I now have a rich toolset that I can guarantee will be there (yes, it's easier to ask someone to install Java Runtime than it is to tell them to upgrade .Net Framework)... but the killer bit for me as a devloper is that my application just became 100% compatible with Apple and Linux machines.
You see where this is going? Yes... that's right. Microsoft have just taken a decision that influences the way in which developers make their software and those developers are now going to choose to opt for neutral languages and frameworks, as we can have less surety that Windows components are the latest and greatest (and you might have tried... but developing for OLD Windows components proves to be the most difficult thing in the world!).
So... there we are. Microsoft have just given developers the motivation to port their apps. And in doing so, given consumers an easier path off of their systems.
jzderf @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
ahem ahem *avarice*
no, since saying something contrary the sarcastic comment in all seriousness means NOT getting the comment. genius.
dean vinces @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
this might be true for a while but it will change all programs have been cracked one way or another so it will only be a matter of time before someone finds a way to get around it!
Smirnof @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
You know whats sad... i was using a pirated version of windows.... I came across a legit version and decided to install it. I had so many problems with everything (the internet... the automatic updates... the MANUAL updates...) i ended up trashing it and reinstalling my pirated version... its sad when the software security is so messed up you havta run the cracked version for better results.
nimd4 @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
sorry i couldnt hold back because just after the posts:
12. Posted Jan 26, 2005, 1:39 PM ET by jzderf
seems like sarcasm s flown over the heads of readers yet again.
ahem *dennis* ahem.Fo
13. Posted Jan 26, 2005, 2:13 PM ET by av4rice
Seems like everyone recognizes the obvious sarcasm and is merely agreeing with the hidden message.
ahem *jzderf*
i developed a liking for the entire thing, when a nimrod like Sam Darranger decided to post:
14. Posted Jan 26, 2005, 2:35 PM ET by Sam Darranger
Obviously Ryan Block is locked in a closet somewhere. XP registration has been cracked for quite awhile now and the WMP10 updates are unphased by the registration crack software. Ryan needs to load a fresh copy of XP on a pc ..
Sam you fucking idiot .. It's because of technology made available to large masses, including villagers like you (that can't tell their head from their ass, read: detect sarcasm) that microsoft and these large corporations can blatantly lie their asses off like there is no tomorrow; but there is a tomorrow, and it's not going to be 1984 so help me God .. lol ok a little melo-dramatic but still ;p
nimd4 @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
Pirates:1 Microsoft:0 nimd4:0 (on spelling)
Maaatt @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
In reply to: Jay
Jay wrote: "Why doesn't Microshit just shut down and fuck off. No one will miss that shit hole."
Microshit? You're so ignorant Jay ...
I would presume about 100% of the illiterate PC user community would miss them because using Linux or MAC would be even more difficult to grasp. I'd even expect that the majority of illerate users havent even heard of an alternative OS.
deegee @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
Theres not as much paranoia flowing around here as many of us would like to think. Whilst WPA was cracked, and therefore anything using the same client-based activation procedure imminently crackable, and this Windows Validation procedure may be rather light and forgiving at the moment, be under no misapprehension that this system will become compulsory, will get stronger, and will be the start of a new era of Microsofts anti-piracy program.
This system wont be about stopping people from getting updates, but about recording and cataloguing pirates and hackers data. Once the ActiveX component sends the information on the PID to Bill, and its flagged as a pirated copy, after running a tracert, they have all the info they need to get you in a suit and tie in front of a judge.
But they wont do that to everyone!, all the (slightly less computer savvy) people reading this on a pirated OS say.
No, they wont.
They dont need to. You wont be put of piracy by any checks or blocks or walls MS put up its part of the challenge, part of the fun - but when you read on engadget that MS have had 100 (just 100; itd cost them less than 1% of what this Validation procedures probably cost) pirates arrested in, say, America, Canada and France (their home, the country where piracy is legal and the European country with the highest piracy rate respectively), that will scare the crap out of you. It scares the crap out of me.
Im not being pro-MS or anti-piracy. Far from it. Im making a point that, with the advancing anti-piracy laws that the MPAA have lobbied in, Microsoft will soon be in a position to do something, and we shouldnt let their passive stance and lack of actions detract from the fact that this Windows Validation procedure may be the foundations of their counter attack.
Jaqqo @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
erm, guys...
I just went into TOOLS>INTERNET OPTIONS>PROGRAMS>MANAGE ADD-ONS and disabled the WGA Active-X control and now windows update works again. Guess they didn't think of that?
Lane @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
The greatest achievement of this new protection scheme will be the workaround for it. No group of individuals will work harder around the clock than the people who enjoy turning Bill Gates hair grey. That being said I still can't install my IE 7 beta 1 untill someone releases that work around. Bah if only I didn't hate using my legit copy of Windows XP (I hate activation garbage) then I could use the beta software i've been provided. Soon soon...
azungu @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
Jaqqo,
Security update should stay available, even with a none legit key. It's all the rest that is targeted by the WGA. Deactivating the Active-X will let you download say Picture Story 3 but, you will not be able to install it... Well, I guess it will take a couple of weeks and a workaround will be available!!!
Jason @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
Jaqqo may have cracked Microsoft in 3 clicks-- i disabled the WGA Active-X control and the windows update site works again. amazingly easy.
NeoUltimicia @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
Jaqqo, I thank you for sharing with us your trick.
I'm glad I can still update for the time being :)
I just hope it'll be like this for a bit of time...
loose @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
" Posted Jul 28, 2005, 3:54 PM ET by Jason
Jaqqo may have cracked Microsoft in 3 clicks-- i disabled the WGA Active-X control and the windows update site works again. amazingly easy."
mind telling us exactly how u do that plz ? cause when i followed jaqqo's way i couldnt find the manage addons thing :(
loose @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
" Posted Jul 28, 2005, 3:54 PM ET by Jason
Jaqqo may have cracked Microsoft in 3 clicks-- i disabled the WGA Active-X control and the windows update site works again. amazingly easy."
mind telling us exactly how u do that plz ? cause when i followed jaqqo's way i couldnt find the manage addons thing :(
loose @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
" Posted Jul 28, 2005, 3:54 PM ET by Jason
Jaqqo may have cracked Microsoft in 3 clicks-- i disabled the WGA Active-X control and the windows update site works again. amazingly easy."
mind telling us exactly how u do that plz ? cause when i followed jaqqo's way i couldnt find the manage addons thing :(
Drew @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
The manager add-ons feature is only for the SP2 version of IE6, so those that have installed SP2 can crack this in a few steps
KillerPM @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
OK.. Everybody stop being dumb..
Big companies will not have to auth all their pc's. big companies use patch management software.
second. Paying for updates is stupid. That would look bad on microsofts part for coding crappy software, and then making people pay more money to fix their mistakes. It wont fly.
loose @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
well thnx all ... but i cracked it! crappy micro$oft r just too dumb! lol
i found a way with just writing a 4 word sentence in the IE bar in java
Elistas @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
Before you click on "Express" or "Custom" at the Windows Update site, paste the following line into the address bar and press enter:
javascript:void(window.g_sDisableWGACheck='all')
Nothing will happen, but now click on "Express" or "Custom" and it will work fine. Unfortunately you have to do this everytime you want to use Windows Update, but at least it let's you use all of the Windows Update features.
Timmy Roth @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
Disable WGA Validation with pictures
http://home19.inet.tele.dk/jys05000/
santiago @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
Windows: 0
Piracy: 1
lol
come on Microsoft, you can do better! oh wait, "they" will crack it then also! :)
Atkip @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
well I have tryed all of the suggestions, & "NONE"
of them work it bumps you to a update that says:
_______________________________________________
Windows Update
To use this latest version of Windows Update, you will need to upgrade some of its components. This version provides you with the following enhancements to our service:
Express and custom installation: Choose only the most recent critical updates or pick and choose from all available updates.
Smarter downloads: If downloading is interrupted, the process will start up where it left off the next time you download that update.
Smaller downloads: Only the files your computer needs are downloaded, saving download time and connection-speed costs.
One version: Only the most recent updates are offered to you.
Less clutter: You can now hide updates you don't want to see.
Update news: A News from Microsoft section on the Windows Update home page displays tips and the latest information.
Details
Windows Genuine Advantage Validation Tool (KB892130)
443 KB , less than 1 minute
The Windows Genuine Advantage Validation Tool enables you to verify that your copy of Microsoft Windows is genuine. The tool validates your Windows installation by checking Windows Product Identification and Product Activation status. After you install this item, you may have to restart your computer. Once you have installed this item, it cannot be removed.
Total: 443 KB , less than 1 minute
[Download and Install Now]
(& I dont want to install it cuz it says it wont be able to be removed)
Atkip @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
Nevermind I downloaded it anyway & did the addon disable fix & well try it!
[URL=http://www.imageshack.us][IMG]http://img108.echo.cx/img108/7577/2e872ae04tq4oi.gif[/IMG]
Miguel Veiga @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
Well, disabling the add-on from WGA makes windows update perfectly.
Of course this was a stupid thing that microsoft has forgotten and will probrably fix but for now.........works just fine
Patrick Ligocki @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
Well, javascript:void(window.g_sDisableWGACheck='all')worked great on August 13th, but tried it again on August 14th and no go. What will work now? Stupid Microjerks.
Patrick Ligocki @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
Whoa, found a solution and it is easier than having to continually paste a patch. (Thanks to the PC World article http://www.pcworld.com/resource/article/0,aid,122058,pg,1,RSS,RSS,00.asp) GO into Internet Explorer's menu items Tools,Internet Options, Programs, Manage Addons. Make sure that the Show box highlights "Addons that have been used by Internet Explorer" Go down to Windows Genuine Advantage and highlight; the over to Settings and choose Disable.
brian @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
but what I want to know is if it runs itself, or if you can choose to run it... can anyone comment on this? I myself have not seen it... I'm running Linux :P
SmooVe @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM
Thank you! from a novice computer tinker. I just came upon this problem with a computer built by a relative and the add-on disabling works like a charm. Only spent 5 minutes researching this before I come upon this site and solution. What a rush! ~_*