Watch out for cheap Windows software

spikespiegal

Golden Member
Oct 10, 2005
1,219
9
76
I realize I'm preaching to the choir here, but a friend of mine just got stung on this and I feel compelled to pass on the reminder.

He bought a version of Windows Server 2003 from AboveGroundSolutions.com (irony in the name,eh?) because it was $100 cheaper than most other bargain software outlets. I was looking at his server the other day, when I noticed his install disks said "not for retail or OEM distribution", and reminded him this was illegal.

Of course his E-mail to the software vendor was unanswered. If at some point MS decides the owner of that license key is reselling volume software illegally, you might find youself locked out of updates at some future point. Not worth the risk I say.

If the seller doesn't clearly state it's an OEM and the price is cheap, chances are the software is not legal for resale.
 

mb

Lifer
Jun 27, 2004
10,233
2
71
I would say something like "common sense FTW" but sadly it isn't common sense... a fool and his money....
 

IamDavid

Diamond Member
Sep 13, 2000
5,888
10
81
Originally posted by: spikespiegal
I realize I'm preaching to the choir here, but a friend of mine just got stung on this and I feel compelled to pass on the reminder.

He bought a version of Windows Server 2003 from AboveGroundSolutions.com (irony in the name,eh?) because it was $100 cheaper than most other bargain software outlets. I was looking at his server the other day, when I noticed his install disks said "not for retail or OEM distribution", and reminded him this was illegal.

Of course his E-mail to the software vendor was unanswered. If at some point MS decides the owner of that license key is reselling volume software illegally, you might find youself locked out of updates at some future point. Not worth the risk I say.

If the seller doesn't clearly state it's an OEM and the price is cheap, chances are the software is not legal for resale.



He should be alright as long as he kept the receipt.. MS will trade him a new OS and go after the seller. I hope that's ow it works now...
 

FlasHBurN

Golden Member
Oct 12, 1999
1,346
0
71
Originally posted by: IamDavid
Originally posted by: spikespiegal
I realize I'm preaching to the choir here, but a friend of mine just got stung on this and I feel compelled to pass on the reminder.

He bought a version of Windows Server 2003 from AboveGroundSolutions.com (irony in the name,eh?) because it was $100 cheaper than most other bargain software outlets. I was looking at his server the other day, when I noticed his install disks said "not for retail or OEM distribution", and reminded him this was illegal.

Of course his E-mail to the software vendor was unanswered. If at some point MS decides the owner of that license key is reselling volume software illegally, you might find youself locked out of updates at some future point. Not worth the risk I say.

If the seller doesn't clearly state it's an OEM and the price is cheap, chances are the software is not legal for resale.



He should be alright as long as he kept the receipt.. MS will trade him a new OS and go after the seller. I hope that's ow it works now...

Indeed, that is how it works. I believe you can contact piracy@microsoft.com with all of your information and they will have you send your discs and they will send you a retail copy.