subject: How to protect your computer from fake software [print this page] The fake software's may not only harm your computer but also lead to serious problems and harassment. Many of us have probably frequently received spam e-mails offering software at a fraction of its cost in high street shops. Find the below points to identify the fake software.
Software Security Guidelines
If a price seems too good to be true. Be wary of extremely reduced prices and double-check the site's authenticity.
The first thing to notice about them is their price. If anyone on the web offers you a software at an unbelievably low price; have a proper check on the source.
Purchase software only from reputable companies.
When shopping online, make sure the web site is legitimate. On the site's purchase page, click the padlock icon in your browser's frame and view the security certificate. If there's no padlock, the site's probably not safe.
Before providing credit card information, check the site's URL address. It must read https, not just http. If there's no "s," don't make the purchase. (The "s" only means that information is encrypted when it's sent over the Internet. It doesn't mean the site is legitimate.)
If your software arrives wearing only a white sleeve or envelope, it's probably fake. Legitimate software comes in plastic-covered packages, with printed directions and registration cards.
How to Spot Software Scams
Some of the warning signs that a vendor is not operating legitimately are:
If the price is way out of line from the prices offered by reputable, authorized resellers such as your local computer store or well-known online retailers such as Amazon.com.
If the merchant's "terms of sales and service" page has a statement that you give up the right to initiate a chargeback through your credit card company.
If you are required to use a special number or procedure for activating your software before you can use it, you are likely getting a hacked version that bypasses the manufacturer's embedded product activation.
If the product is advertised as an OEM, NFR, or academic version. (OME software is only to be sold with hardware such as new computer systems. NFR stands for not for resale and is generally distributed for evaluation purposes and beta testing. Academic versions can only be purchased by students, teachers, and education faculty.)
If the packaging is inconsistent with the same products offered through reputable sellers.
If the product is advertised a "full version" but states that you will receive only CDs.
If the product is advertised as a "backup copy" with serial number.
