I think I have been pirated. My pc crashed. I took it to repairman. He
talked me into updating from ME to XP. I got tower back, but no CD, floppies,
etc. I have asked for the backup disc, but he will not give me one.
He installed XP Pro Service Pack 2. How do I find out & prove if it is
pirated? How do I get a backup? (He says I can make one, but can't figure out
how...if I can)
I contacted microsoft, but they will not tell me if it is piracy, although
she said she thought it was. Says it is not their customary procedure to
notify me.
I want to take him to small claims court or something, but I need proof.
"Leythos" wrote:
> In article <177873B0-A34B-40D9...@microsoft.com>,
> vio...@discussions.microsoft.com says...
> > I think I have been pirated. My pc crashed. I took it to repairman. He
> > talked me into updating from ME to XP. I got tower back, but no CD, floppies,
> > etc. I have asked for the backup disc, but he will not give me one.
> > He installed XP Pro Service Pack 2. How do I find out & prove if it is
> > pirated
>
> If your computer was upgraded from ME to XP and you didn't get the
> official XP Upgrade disk or a Full/OEM XP Disk, then you got a pirated
> copy of XP.
>
> Tell the vendor that you want a legit XP CD/media or you're going to
> report him to Microsoft and the BSA, and even the local authorities.
>
> DO NOT LET HIM BACK AT YOUR COMPUTER once you do this.
>
> He should also provide a COA (a Microsoft Sticker) that includes a 25
> digit key:
>
> A COA might look like one of the following:
>
> http://www.zodiac.com.hk/zodiac/resources/MS_Windows_XP_Home_sticker.jpg
>
> http://img.pconline.com.cn/images/bbs4/2005/09/11/1126431876386727.jpg
>
> http://www.a-computers.ca/imags/windowscoa.gif
>
> --
>
> spam9...@rrohio.com
> remove 999 in order to email me
>
"violet" <vio...@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:65715833-508C-4BAA...@microsoft.com...
"violet" <vio...@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:177873B0-A34B-40D9...@microsoft.com...
Magic Jellybean
http://www.magicaljellybean.com/keyfinder.shtml
I think Belarc Advisor freeware can give youe any needed numbers but Im not
100% sure.
--
Please repost if you find the fault
Glen P
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"violet" <vio...@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:1C19AB51-82FF-4154...@microsoft.com...
--
Larry Samuels Associate Expert
MS-MVP (2001-2005)
Unofficial FAQ for Windows Server 2003 at
http://pelos.us/SERVER.htm
Expert Zone- www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone
"violet" <vio...@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:65715833-508C-4BAA...@microsoft.com...
"Leythos" wrote:
> In article <65715833-508C-4BAA...@microsoft.com>,
> vio...@discussions.microsoft.com says...
> > Is there a way for me to get information off my computer to prove this? As I
> > said, I would like to take him to small claims court & get my money back. I
> > don't believe he is going to supply me with the disc. I have contacted him 3
> > times & he keeps giving me the run around. He says I got what I paid
> > for.....uninstalling ME & installing a new program. He said it didn't matter
> > what system he put on my pc, ie. 98, Me, XP. How do I get a disc if he
> > doesn't give me one?
> > I have already reported him to microsoft & BSA. Why contact the local
> > authorities? What would they do?
>
> If you report him to the local authorities it will put local pressure on
> him, as MS and the BSA are not likely to go after a small pirate.
>
> If you have a receipt, if you have something that shows that he did the
> work, or something that shows that HE installed it, then you have a
> case, and the local authorities should be notified.
>
> Call him up, tell him that if he doesn't provide valid/licensable media
> and COA, that you are going to contact the local authorities - most
> pirates will cough up a legal copy rather than risk more legal action.
>
> After you get everything, report him anyway for making you jump through
> all those hoops.
"Leythos" wrote:
> In article <65715833-508C-4BAA...@microsoft.com>,
> vio...@discussions.microsoft.com says...
> > Is there a way for me to get information off my computer to prove this? As I
> > said, I would like to take him to small claims court & get my money back. I
> > don't believe he is going to supply me with the disc. I have contacted him 3
> > times & he keeps giving me the run around. He says I got what I paid
> > for.....uninstalling ME & installing a new program. He said it didn't matter
> > what system he put on my pc, ie. 98, Me, XP. How do I get a disc if he
> > doesn't give me one?
> > I have already reported him to microsoft & BSA. Why contact the local
> > authorities? What would they do?
>
> If you report him to the local authorities it will put local pressure on
> him, as MS and the BSA are not likely to go after a small pirate.
>
> If you have a receipt, if you have something that shows that he did the
> work, or something that shows that HE installed it, then you have a
> case, and the local authorities should be notified.
>
> Call him up, tell him that if he doesn't provide valid/licensable media
> and COA, that you are going to contact the local authorities - most
> pirates will cough up a legal copy rather than risk more legal action.
>
> After you get everything, report him anyway for making you jump through
> all those hoops.
>
>
"Leythos" wrote:
> In article <595E2F98-107E-4D6B...@microsoft.com>,
> vio...@discussions.microsoft.com says...
> > I contacted his store this morning. Of course, he wasn't there & is suppose
> > to call me this afternoon. I'm going to wait till 4:30 & call, if he has
> > not........which I don't think he will. I will leave the message you gave me,
> > giving him a deadline of Friday 6/09. I plan to go to the police & the
> > courthouse on Monday.
> > I appreciate your taking the time to help me. As I said, I am computer
> > stupid, but I just felt something was rottten in Denmark! I now feel I can go
> > up against this guy.
>
> Make sure you post how things turn out, I'll monitor the group for your
> reply (keep the same Subject if you can).
>
> Just make sure that you don't fall for the "You have to bring the
> computer into the office so that I can legally past the COA sticker on
> the box in the proper location" - this would be a warning that he might
> wipe the entire drive to hide any evidence. Also, make sure you don't
> hand over your receipt, it's evidence now.
--
Larry Samuels Associate Expert
MS-MVP (2001-2005)
Unofficial FAQ for Windows Server 2003 at
http://pelos.us/SERVER.htm
Expert Zone- www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone
"violet" <vio...@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:0FA2D26F-F837-471E...@microsoft.com...
*IF* they offer you a new, factory sealed copy of Windows XP with the Orange
sticker and COA, you should still not sign for it. They have broken the law
and should be investigated.
If it were me, I would not even bother. I would document everything and take
them to small claims court.
If they are in the wrong, they will have to pay any fines, damages and
penalties as well as your court costs.
Bobby
"violet" <vio...@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:F807BBF7-9E57-49EF...@microsoft.com...
"Leythos" wrote:
> In article <enDR4Ggi...@TK2MSFTNGP04.phx.gbl>,
> Diesp...@notme.com says...
> > Do not sign *anything*. If you sign a statement as they want, it will stand
> > in court, and you won't have much of a case.
> >
> > *IF* they offer you a new, factory sealed copy of Windows XP with the Orange
> > sticker and COA, you should still not sign for it. They have broken the law
> > and should be investigated.
>
> I slightly disagree, as long as the document doesn't restrict the op
> from any other action, as long as it doesn't restrict the op from any
> comment/notification of the authorities, then I would take it
> (media/CD/COA) and then go after them. Better to have a legit OS and
> then battle them for being a pirate later.
>
> > If it were me, I would not even bother. I would document everything and take
> > them to small claims court.
> > If they are in the wrong, they will have to pay any fines, damages and
> > penalties as well as your court costs.
>
> Yes, but that can take time and you don't really know if you'll get a
> valid license in the end, better to get the license and then go after
> them through the police (you don't have to go the court path).
"Leythos" wrote:
> In article <F807BBF7-9E57-49EF...@microsoft.com>,
> vio...@discussions.microsoft.com says...
> > If there is anything not legit, I am going to write it on the letter
> > before signing it.
>
> Don't sign anything, even if you are pressured, unless the key/COA/CD
> are 100% legit. Even if you note on the letter than you are missing part
> X, don't feel something is right, you never know what they will/can do.
>
> If you don't get a real CD/COA, then don't accept anything from them and
> don't sign anything.
>
> Go on to www.Google.com, search for XP COA, then click the "Images" link
> above the search box, it will return a BUNCH of pictures, many of them
> show what real COA stickers look like.
>
> If it doesn't look official, then don't take/sign anything. The real CD
> is silver and has a holographic image, if you hold it at different
> angles it will say Microsoft on it.
Ok, report him to:
http://www.siia.net/piracy/report.asp?gclid=CIH197KhvYUCFRJbFQod4R-qyw
Then go here and fill out a tip:
Then here:
https://reporting.bsa.org/usa/home.aspx
Then here
http://www.microsoft.com/piracy/ReportingUs.mspx
File a report with you State Consumer Affairs.
Then file a report with your local police agency as you have been a victim
of fraud.
Write a letter to the in-DUH-vidual and explain you have reported him to the
authorities. Include copies of the forms you fill out...black out ALL
personal information. Ask for your money back. Tell him he has 30 days to
respond or you will sue him in small claims court for fraud.
Found this on another website:
To meet your legal obligations, include the following information in your 30
Day Demand Letter:
1. Your full name and address
2. The description of the unfair or deceptive act or practice including all
the unfair or deceptive practices claimed, the dates involved in the
transaction, and any other important facts. If you know the regulation number
of the regulation violated, you may wish to include it. However, you are not
limited to written regulations or laws.
3. Clearly explain the injury you suffered as a result of the unlawful act
such as:
o Failure to return a security deposit results in the loss of money.
o Sale of a defective household appliance results in the ownership of a
useless and worthless product.
o Purchase of goods through "bait and switch" tactics results in owning
unwanted goods which are more expensive than originally planned
o Failure of the TV repairman to repair a broken set results in payment for
services improperly performed.
The demanded relief including the amount of money you are demanding to
recover. Although it is not required by law, the 30-Day Demand Letter should
be sent by certified mail, return-receipt requested, so that you will have
proof of delivery. Send the letter by regular mail also, and keep a copy for
your files.
Written Offer of Settlement
Once you mail the 30 Day Demand Letter, the merchant has thirty days to
respond in writing. You then must decide to either reject or accept the
merchant’s offer. If you reject an offer which the Court later finds to be
reasonable, then the Court may limit the amount of money you can collect. The
Court may limit your recovery to the amount the merchant originally offered
to you.
The Court may find in your favor because either the merchant never sent a
settlement offer or sent you an unreasonable offer. You then may be able to
recover you actual monetary damages, or $25, whichever is greater.
The Court may also find that the merchant's violation of the Consumer
Protection Act was "willful or knowing," or that the merchant’s refusal to
settle with you was made in bad faith. In either case, you may receive
between two and three times the amount of your actual damages, or $25,
whichever is greater.
If the Court finds in your favor, you are entitled to reasonable attorney’s
fees and costs. However, the Court may not award you attorney’s fees if you
initially rejected a reasonable settlement offer.
You can be assured that this is not the first time this slug has done this
but with your actions and diligence it will be the last.
Good Luck!
ps...sorry for the earlier blank post
"Leythos" <vo...@nowhere.lan> wrote in message
news:2YEsg.22417$vl5....@tornado.ohiordc.rr.com...
> Just an update for everyone that participated in this thread:
>
> The computer owner was offered a different version of XP than the vendor
> had installed and it was refused. The vendor tried to get the computer
> owner to sign-off on the deal and the owner would not.
>
> The computer owner contacted the authorities and was directed to take it
> to small claims court and won by default - the vendor didn't how up at
> court.
>
> The vendor now has 10 days to respond and if not, then the computer
> owner wins - the bad part is the owner has to collect some way on their
> own, but the judgment is against the vendors business.
>
> The vendor is also being watched by the authorities and the MS Piracy
> group has reported that they are investigating the vendor too.
>
> Sometimes WGAN really does work and it really does catch pirated copies
> properly.
>
>
>
>> In article <8AC3E08B-2C3B-451E...@microsoft.com>,
>> vio...@discussions.microsoft.com says...
>> > I contacted the repairman almost 2 weeks ago about a disc. At first he
>> > said
>> > he would take $99 out of his own pocket & order me one. The day it was
>> > supposed to be here, he said it didn't come in. The next day, his wife
>> > called
>> > & said it still didn't come in. She said UPS must have lost it & they
>> > were
>> > going to track the shipment. I do have my receipt, but it doesn't state
>> > which
>> > version he put on it. It just says "reinstall operating system with all
>> > updates".
>>
>> It only take a couple days to get an OEM installation from a VAR, call
>> them back and tell them that you've been told that you appear to have a
>> pirated copy of Windows XP on your computer, that without a COA and
>> Media, according to Microsoft's Systems Builder agreement, that you have
>> a pirated copy of Windows XP on your computer. Tell them the only way
>> that MS permits the distribution of OEM software is with the COA and you
>> want your COA sticker and media or you will have no choice except to
>> report them to the authorities. Tell them that you expect the media/COA
>> no later than (pick a time that works for you, but make it this week,
>> early).
>>
>> The key part of the vendors statement is that they told you it would
>> take $99 out of their own pocket - if it was a legit copy of XP he would
>> already have spent the money and already have provided you with a COA
>> and media.
>>
>> Do not give him access to your computer and do not give him access to
>> your receipt - you want to have those as leverage against them.
Regards,
Fitz (retired deputy) :-)
***
"Leythos" <vo...@nowhere.lan> wrote in message
news:YhFsg.22555$vl5....@tornado.ohiordc.rr.com...
> In article <B4Fsg.6954$4c7...@tornado.southeast.rr.com>,
> SENDN...@SENDNOMAIL.INVALID says...
>> Actually, once the judgment is entered, the Sheriff of the county will
>> levy
>> on the defendant's assets (seize enough property to satisfy the judgment
>> if
>> the property should have to be auctioned to enforce the judgment).
>> Pretty
>> much painless for the Plaintiff.
>
> They were under the impression that unless there was money that could be
> reached that they would have to wait or find some other means.
>
> It would be really great if the local authorities would collect for
Works for who?
The victim is considerably out of pocket and has no way of getting
anything back without yet more effort -if then.
The moral of the story is leave the pirates alone and let Microsoft
find some other way around the problem. The victim would have been
better off if on finding she had a dodgy copy that wouldn't update she
had gone to a reputable shop and got a genuine disk.
Or learned to live with the one she had -or went Linux.
"Leythos" wrote:
> Just an update for everyone that participated in this thread:
>
> The computer owner was offered a different version of XP than the vendor
> had installed and it was refused. The vendor tried to get the computer
> owner to sign-off on the deal and the owner would not.
>
> The computer owner contacted the authorities and was directed to take it
> to small claims court and won by default - the vendor didn't how up at
> court.
>
> The vendor now has 10 days to respond and if not, then the computer
> owner wins - the bad part is the owner has to collect some way on their
> own, but the judgment is against the vendors business.
>
> The vendor is also being watched by the authorities and the MS Piracy
> group has reported that they are investigating the vendor too.
>
> Sometimes WGAN really does work and it really does catch pirated copies
> properly.
>
>
>
> > In article <8AC3E08B-2C3B-451E...@microsoft.com>,
> > vio...@discussions.microsoft.com says...
> > > I contacted the repairman almost 2 weeks ago about a disc. At first he said
> > > he would take $99 out of his own pocket & order me one. The day it was
> > > supposed to be here, he said it didn't come in. The next day, his wife called
> > > & said it still didn't come in. She said UPS must have lost it & they were
> > > going to track the shipment. I do have my receipt, but it doesn't state which
> > > version he put on it. It just says "reinstall operating system with all
> > > updates".
> >
> > It only take a couple days to get an OEM installation from a VAR, call
> > them back and tell them that you've been told that you appear to have a
> > pirated copy of Windows XP on your computer, that without a COA and
> > Media, according to Microsoft's Systems Builder agreement, that you have
> > a pirated copy of Windows XP on your computer. Tell them the only way
> > that MS permits the distribution of OEM software is with the COA and you
> > want your COA sticker and media or you will have no choice except to
> > report them to the authorities. Tell them that you expect the media/COA
> > no later than (pick a time that works for you, but make it this week,
> > early).
> >
> > The key part of the vendors statement is that they told you it would
> > take $99 out of their own pocket - if it was a legit copy of XP he would
> > already have spent the money and already have provided you with a COA
> > and media.
> >
> > Do not give him access to your computer and do not give him access to
> > your receipt - you want to have those as leverage against them.
>
"Leythos" wrote:
> Just an update for everyone that participated in this thread:
>
> The computer owner was offered a different version of XP than the vendor
> had installed and it was refused. The vendor tried to get the computer
> owner to sign-off on the deal and the owner would not.
>
> The computer owner contacted the authorities and was directed to take it
> to small claims court and won by default - the vendor didn't how up at
> court.
>
> The vendor now has 10 days to respond and if not, then the computer
> owner wins - the bad part is the owner has to collect some way on their
> own, but the judgment is against the vendors business.
>
> The vendor is also being watched by the authorities and the MS Piracy
> group has reported that they are investigating the vendor too.
>
> Sometimes WGAN really does work and it really does catch pirated copies
> properly.
>
>
>
> > In article <8AC3E08B-2C3B-451E...@microsoft.com>,
> > vio...@discussions.microsoft.com says...
> > > I contacted the repairman almost 2 weeks ago about a disc. At first he said
> > > he would take $99 out of his own pocket & order me one. The day it was
> > > supposed to be here, he said it didn't come in. The next day, his wife called
> > > & said it still didn't come in. She said UPS must have lost it & they were
> > > going to track the shipment. I do have my receipt, but it doesn't state which
> > > version he put on it. It just says "reinstall operating system with all
> > > updates".
> >
> > It only take a couple days to get an OEM installation from a VAR, call
> > them back and tell them that you've been told that you appear to have a
> > pirated copy of Windows XP on your computer, that without a COA and
> > Media, according to Microsoft's Systems Builder agreement, that you have
> > a pirated copy of Windows XP on your computer. Tell them the only way
> > that MS permits the distribution of OEM software is with the COA and you
> > want your COA sticker and media or you will have no choice except to
> > report them to the authorities. Tell them that you expect the media/COA
> > no later than (pick a time that works for you, but make it this week,
> > early).
> >
> > The key part of the vendors statement is that they told you it would
> > take $99 out of their own pocket - if it was a legit copy of XP he would
> > already have spent the money and already have provided you with a COA
> > and media.
> >
> > Do not give him access to your computer and do not give him access to
> > your receipt - you want to have those as leverage against them.
>
I've served judgments on people that had no assets and a couple of years
later had some assets.
In one case, the judgment was still valid and I immediately seized the asset
(in this case...a car) and it was later sold at public auction.
In another case, I helped serve a $500,000 judgment on a nationally known
rock band. We seized guitars, amps, drums, assorted musical instruments,
jewelry from the band members and lighting equipment. We didn't seize the
limo or band bus because we had enough assets to cover the $500,000 judgment
if we auctioned the equipment. As it turned out, the band struck a deal
with the plaintiff and the stuff didn't have to go on the block.
I've seized myna birds, condominiums, bank accounts, tools and clothing.
Almost nothing is protected.
I wouldn't think you'd have to find the assets (maybe your state is
different than NC) but start with the Tax Office and Register of Deeds.
Check business licenses. If it's a small amount of money, he may have
enough cash in the cash register. Remember, he doesn't have to own the
property free and clear. If there's a (legitimate) lien, the lien holder
will be protected before you. Anything over the lien holders interest will
be used to satisfy the judgment.
***
"violet" <vio...@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:B3AE357F-35A6-446B...@microsoft.com...
"violet" <vio...@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:26709AEF-8367-4636...@microsoft.com...
--
***
"violet" <vio...@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:B3382655-53DB-4C59...@microsoft.com...
"Leythos" wrote:
> > your receipt - you want to have those as leverage against them.
"Leythos" wrote:
> In article <CA5BA328-F263-4429...@microsoft.com>,
> vio...@discussions.microsoft.com says...
> > UPDATE...filed to collect on judgement. He hired an attorney to have it
> > dismissed because the birth of a premature baby had complications & it caused
> > him not to be able to contact the court or appear. Not only did the judge not
> > buy it, but I was able to testify to driving past his shop on my way to court
> > that morning & he was standing out front talking on his cell phone. The judge
> > denied the dimissal. I now have to file (again) to collect, because the 30
> > days are up.
>
> You hold a special place in my heart for having the courage to go after
> a pirate that took advantage of you, and all the work you've put into
> it. It's honorable people like you that make the difference and set the
> example for others.
"violet" <vio...@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:1BB2A1D2-0679-4495...@microsoft.com...
Fitz
"violet" <vio...@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:87DDBFB6-7D1A-43B6...@microsoft.com...
"violet" wrote:
> FIRST--I am computer stupid! I appreciate any help, but please make it simple
> for me to understand.....TY!
>
> I think I have been pirated. My pc crashed. I took it to repairman. He
> talked me into updating from ME to XP. I got tower back, but no CD, floppies,
> etc. I have asked for the backup disc, but he will not give me one.
> He installed XP Pro Service Pack 2. How do I find out & prove if it is
> pirated? How do I get a backup? (He says I can make one, but can't figure out
> how...if I can)
> I contacted microsoft, but they will not tell me if it is piracy, although
> she said she thought it was. Says it is not their customary procedure to
> notify me.
> I want to take him to small claims court or something, but I need proof.
"violet" <vio...@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:FC98E5FB-4397-4FB6...@microsoft.com...
"Leythos" wrote:
> In article <821CF3E5-84BB-4269...@microsoft.com>,
> vio...@discussions.microsoft.com says...
> > UPDATE - The repairman paid another 1/3 for the small claims case I won. The
> > Deputy had to go to his residence & request it this time (he waited while the
> > guy went to his ATM...God bless him!) His shop is closed, but he is working
> > out of his home.
>
> That's wonderful news, it's only disappointing that the case has taken
> so long and been so much trouble for you. This is a prime example of how
> WGA does work and how users/owners can get back at pirates and unethical
> vendors.
>
> It seems that the system DOES work.
--
Regards,
Mark Ritchie
**************************************
Computer Problems Dragging you Down?
Let us Fix it for you quickly and remotely!
http://www.livetechsupport.ca
(866)730-5403
**************************************
"violet" <vio...@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:5B66A2E4-7FAD-4D8E...@microsoft.com...
"violet" <vio...@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:821CF3E5-84BB-4269...@microsoft.com...
"violet" <vio...@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:73FCDC0C-4B2E-4C65...@microsoft.com...
I refuse to install OS software from CD-R's and handwritten keys...
I dont have very many customers, but the ones I do work with have NO
problems with this policy!