WGA headache

[Kaziarl]

So, as far as I know my copy of xp is genuine. Used, granted, but still real. It's been running on my computer for almost a year, and just yesterday this WGA notification pops up telling me that it's possibly counterfeit. Now, the only way around this is if I pay 150 dollars for a new code. Not even the whole software package, just a code that allows me to download supposedly "free" updates.

Does anyone know a way to fix this?

 

[Verteron]

So, as far as I know my copy of xp is genuine. Used, granted, but still real. It's been running on my computer for almost a year, and just yesterday this WGA notification pops up telling me that it's possibly counterfeit. Now, the only way around this is if I pay 150 dollars for a new code. Not even the whole software package, just a code that allows me to download supposedly "free" updates.

Does anyone know a way to fix this?

If your XP is genuine you should call Microsoft and they'll sort you out.

If your XP is fake, then if you report the place you bought it from to Microsoft, I believe they'll usually replace your disks for free with new, genuine ones.

In either case, your best bet is to call Microsoft and ask them why your key has been flagged as invalid. If you don't know your key or have lost your install disks, you can use KeyFinder to display it on screen.

Where is this demand for $150 coming from? Or is this just your assumption? WGA shouldn't be asking for money, if it is, you probably have Malware masquerading as WGA notifications.

 

[Kaziarl]

Its from a web page that the WGA thing sends me to. It says I have to purchase a genuine key

 

[Robert Maxwell]

Got a link to the page? Sounds quite like a scam to me.

 

[Kaziarl]

http://www.microsoft.com/genuine/do...e758485b-872a-48df-8291-bf2910a8b961&submit=1

 

[Garrovick]

http://www.microsoft.com/genuine/do...e758485b-872a-48df-8291-bf2910a8b961&submit=1

That link says I have valid copy.

 

[Kaziarl]

Told me I didn't. And I guess it's not a big issue. I just have this little window in the corner of my screen that won't go away, and I can't download updates.

 

[Stone_Cold_Sisko]

I know a way to fix it.

Call them.

 

[Meredith]

If you upgraded any of your main hard ware, hard drive, mother board, etc, it may be complaining about that, either that or someone somewhere with a keygen generator generated your code and loaded a bunch of machines with it causing your code to appear fraudulent. Call Microsoft and bitch and complain to them.

 

[Yoda]

My strategy for this kind of stuff is to run a GOOD pirated version, and keep a shrink wrapped legit copy around. If there's no benefit of entering your legit key (for instance online multiplayer games) I'll run the pirated version even if I have a legit copy.

 

[Deks]

If your copy of XP is legit as you say, then simply phone up Microsoft and sort it out.
If for whatever reason they don't sort it out (although they should), then download a WGA fix from online sources and sort it out yourself (it may be akin to illegal activity, but it's not such a big deal to begin with in order to have a 100% functional OS).

WGA has a tendency of nagging people unnecessarily even if they are running a legit version (it's been known to happen).
If you don't fix this issue, the OS won't be disabled, but you cannot download any new updates, and eventually you won't be able to see the background image on the desktop.
I think that M$ mentioned that some other minor functions might become disabled if this isn't dealt with, so either phone them up, or fix it yourself.

 

[Geckothan]

My old solution to get around WGA notifications was simply to not install KB905474 (installs WGA notification junk). Set up automatic updates so you have to choose which ones to download and untick KB905474 every time. I used to use a dodgy volume license key that didn't pass the standalone WGA validation tool, but I could still get updates through automatic updates just fine without any kind of shady cracks. It worked with fake non-volume license keys too, if I recall.

Of course, if you're truly using a genuine key, you might as well contact Microsoft and get them to do something about it, but simply not installing KB905474 worked just fine for me.

 

[TerriO]

Okay, the subject of how to use pirated software can end now, please.

Thank you.

 

[Kaziarl]

Okay, the subject of how to use pirated software can end now, please.

Thank you.

Sorry about that. I guess I should have known that was going to happen. In my defense, it wasn't my intention. I just think its ridiculous to ask for that much money when I've already paid it, and I honestly don't expect microsoft to change that.