Yep, I heard about this on the car radio yesterday. It's not the way to go in my opinion. Software companies have every right to fight piracy. I think either product activation or some kind of subscription service is about the best to stop it. People will always find ways to share software, but if they can't use it then what's the point?
I see that Symantec will include activation in their 2004 products. Time will tell if it will be any more effective than what Microsoft is using. I am sure as the technology evolves it will be harder to bypass it. Or they could do like RealNetworks and force you to subscribe to use the software. I know Microsoft tested this is other countries with only limited success, but I don't think we've seen the last of it.
To me, I think within 5-10 years piracy will be a much smaller problem. The big software companies are losing billions and will spend whatever it takes to protect their products. And if I was in their shoes, I suppose I would do the same.
It's funny how people who would never think of walking into a store and shoplifting can rationalize sharing software. Kind of makes me stop and think. And look in the mirror
The days of software piracy are numbered. So enjoy the ride while you still can. Seems like movies and music sharing will be harder to stop.
MNKid