According to various reports, hackers have already managed to crack and distribute a full copy of Microsoft’s upcoming Windows 7 Ultimate OS months from its official release date on October 22nd. The hacked copy of the operating system comes in the form of an ISO file that was cracked from a leaked Lenovo OEM DVD.
Hackers managed to extract the OEM-SLP key and activation certificate that lets users bypass Microsoft’s Genuine Advantage checker. According to the report, the OEM-SLP key is a master key that can be used to activate other OEM-branded copies, such as those from system builders like Dell, HP, or Lenovo. PC makers usually get copies of the OS way before it gets officially launched in order to make sure that the software runs properly on to-be-released machines.
Microsoft has confirmed the report by coming out with a 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. Microsoft strongly advises customers not to download Windows 7 from unauthorized sources. Downloading Windows 7 from peer-to-peer Web sites exposes users to increased risks–such as viruses, Trojans, and other malware and malicious code–that usually accompany counterfeit software. These risks can seriously harm or permanently destroy data and often expose users to identity theft and other criminal schemes.
Tags: Microsoft, Piracy, Software, Windows 7
