Windows 7 Anti-Piracy Update Now Live
New patch checks for more activation hacks.
Earlier this month, we detailed that Microsoft was prepping a Windows 7 Update that would improve Windows Activation Technologies to detect more than 70 known and potentially dangerous activation exploits.
Those paying attention to their Windows Update will see that the patch KB971033 is now live. It's not explicitly named anything to do with Windows Activation Technologies, as it's simply termed as an "Update for Windows 7."
Microsoft previously pointed out that this update is completely voluntary and users can decline the update when it appears (though we can't imagine why legitimate users would worry). Of course, if a hack or exploit is found, Windows 7 will alert the user by removing the desktop background and pop up periodic reminders of just how non-genuine it is feeling.

May the circle of cracking and patching begin!
May the circle of cracking and patching begin!
Oh? You've never seen MS screw over their own customers? I've seen WGA act up on several very legitimate machines.
In other words, windows will not download and install this update unless you explicitly tell it to do so.
At least, it showed up this way for me.
It's not meant to stop tech-savvy pirates, it's meant to protect customers buying OEM PCs from dodgy retailers who install pirated copies with relatively crude cracks. MS is well aware that any anti-piracy system they use can and will be cracked. I don't doubt that this will be updated again in the future.
I run a legit copy and I didn't install this. I see no reason to waste bandwidth on an update that will only confirm what I already know.
It's the MPAA's new legal strategy- choke a bitch.
"Do you want to allow Ubuntu to have the entire drive?"
click on the yes button, problem solved, security and freedom greatly enhanced.
Haha! Good one...
Pretty much. Its to fight mass piracy on unwitting consumers and those who just download pirated copies off torrent sites that likely come with bundled trojans and botnets. Microsoft knows its not worth it to play catch and mouse with the ACTUAL crackers. They had work arounds for this before it was even announced(a certain cracker's loader still works just fine and didn't even need to be updated).
With that said, I won't download this on a illegitimate or legitimate install of windows. It is programmed to "phone home" every 90 days to detect if your copy is still genuine. I don't need extra processes running and connecting to the internet.
This whole thing is ridiculous.
"It's not meant to stop tech-savvy pirates, it's meant to protect customers buying OEM PCs from dodgy retailers who install pirated copies with relatively crude cracks."
Are these the same customers who are so nieve about browsers that they need a special window to select from and get even more confused while doing so? The same customers who never, ever, ever, ever check and install updates for anything?
If they want protection then they shouldn't be buying their systems from car boot sales or some bloke called 'Del Boy' down the boozer.