Windows 7 activation cracked
By siliconindia   |   Thursday, 30 July 2009, 15:14 IST   |    20 Comments
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Windows 7 activation cracked
Bangalore: Since some Chinese hackers rumored to have cracked the code for Windows 7 activation, Microsoft is facing a security risk after the recent release of the final code for Windows 7 to manufacturers. The Windows Genuine Advantage antipiracy system in the Windows 7 Ultimate release to manufacturers (RTM) has been compromised by hackers, reports CNET News. This means the user can fully activate the software offline without connecting to Microsoft's activation server. The software's RTM code is usually the same as the retail code, which will be available to the public in October. Hackers must have used the leaked ISO file to get hold of the activation certificate that Microsoft digitally signed for the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) version of Windows 7. An OEM activation key will unlock multiple copies and it is rumored that this particular key will work on machines from Dell, Hewlett-Packard or Lenovo. Addressing this, Microsoft released its statement, "We are aware of reports of activation exploits that attempt to circumvent activation and validation in Windows 7, and we can assure customers that Microsoft is committed to protecting them from counterfeit and pirated software." It also advises customers not to download Windows 7 from unauthorized sources.

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