Microsoft Genuine advantage is a disadvantage for users
When Microsoft rolled out its latest anti-piracy initiative this year, it was not aimed at any particular country. Windows Genuine Advantage, a tool that identifies users of counterfeit software and pushes them to buy the real thing, was launched worldwide in several geographical blocs.
China users broke into a storm of anger, forcing Microsoft officials in the country into damage control mode.
China’s piracy rates, at 82% according to the Business Software Alliance, are not the world’s worst. But the country’s sheer size means piracy generates vastly bigger losses there — according to BSA $6.7bn for all software companies last year – than in any other market, according to the industry group.
That figure is, of course, total rubbish.
BSA figures start with a basic presumption that any one who has pirated software would pay the full price if piracy was not available. Which is total nonsense as few users can afford the daft prices Microsoft wants to sell. If enforced it would merely mean a mass exit to a Linux based system and free software.
Now several million Chinese are using a Windows license key held by the University of Pennsylvania, which is freely available on the web.
Last month, Dong Zhengwei, a Beijing-based lawyer, called on the police to pursue Microsoft for what he called a ‘hacker-style attack’ on consumers.
The government has also criticised Microsoft. ‘Violating consumers’ rights just to protect your own rights is inappropriate,’ warns Liu Binjie, Commissioner of the National Copyright Administration. He adds that in future he wants the company to discuss anti-piracy measures with the government before they are launched.
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Source: Financial Times