I think i'm in real trouble?

Question

I downloaded PCHeal from Swiftdog website. Later then, i found a CDkeygenerator for that software online (i prefer not to mention the specific website). I used that keygen and SwiftDog warn me that i'm using an illegal copy of PCHeal. It says that it collected my IP address, my ISP and other stuff and it will investigate further. OMG, they say that i can be fined for up to 250000. I was just playing around. I dont even need to use PCHeal. How do they investigate these stuff? Can i get into trouble? Help, pleaz. I'm freakin out!!

Answer 1

Yep... they would have won... had you not posted this question.

This is a commonly known scare tactic. If you didn't know this was a scare tactic, you probably would never use a keygen or other type of crack again.

I wouldn't worry about it.

While using a device (program) that circumvents a copy-protection mechanism is technically illegal, they usually only go after the guys that make them, not those that use them.

Why? It would cost much more money for Swiftdog to go after you than the amount they lost by you using a keygen to get their software for free.

While there may be a $250,000 fine, who do you think GETS that money? Swiftdog? No. Usually, that money goes to the state or the federal government (iirc).

If they sue you instead of press criminal charges, the damages wouldn't likely be much more than the amount you should have otherwise paid for the software.

Answer 2

Learned a lesson eh? First downloading keygens is dangerous because they are filled with virus'' and malicious software, my guess is thats the problem. Just going to those sites can play havoc on your system.

I don't think you're in any big trouble, just uninstall the program, remove the keygen file and run a good virus scan and scan for malicious software. You've been infected. Clean house then go buy the program. Good luck.

Answer 3

If they really wanted to push it, you could get into trouble if you got a keygen to generate a false key. Most of the time they just blacklist the key, so it no longer works. You should use an anonymous proxy server for now on, so you have an anamous IP address.

Answer 4

Serves you right, You probably have a whole lot of trojans and viruses now as well. I believe some software companies do this to stop people using illegal unlock keys.

Answer 5

That is terrible. I recommend delete the software from your computer. Use Tune Up Utilities and CCleaner to clean out your computer of this software. Hopefully nothing happens to you.

http://www.fixyourcomputer.blogspot.com

Answer 6

Yep, you are up a sh** creek without the paddle, and you will mention the website of the cdkey generator in court or to the police when they kick your door down, take your pc, take your kids, shoot the dog and cat, and sell your car.... Piracy does not Pay, whether your playing or not...

Answer 7

okay. Reformat your harddrive. Do you still have your windows operating system? well reinstall windows... and if you can I would change internet service providers.... your ISP is you internet service provider. =( good luck

hope they dont find ya :-o
destroy all evidence
say your friend billy bob came over and installed it when you said not too...

Answer 8

They won't come after you... Messages like this are to scare people (Obviously it works)... They do take your IP and if you repeatedly offend they will prosecute, but as it stands your OK..

Don't worry... :-D

VJ

Answer 9

yes hun they can and will find out if they want everything about you and if it is serious enough the will come after you

Answer 10

I wouldn't worry about it. It's designed to scare the hell out of you and that's about all and it seems to have done the trick.