It's easy to spot pirated products when you know how. Recognising the anti-counterfeiting security features in genuine Microsoft products and looking out for them when buying software or hardware will help give you peace of mind and avoid the risks associated with pirated Microsoft products.
Look for these security features:
Certificate of Authenticity (COA)
To determine whether the Microsoft software and components are genuine, look for the Certificate of Authenticity sticker affixed to the casing of your new PC or affixed to the top of the retail box packaging.
Edge-to-Edge Holographic CD
Genuine Microsoft software comes with an Edge-to-Edge Holographic CD. The Edge-to-Edge Holographic CD features a three-dimensional holographic image over the entire surface of the CD. This holographic image is part of the CD itself, not a sticker, so it's easier to identify genuine Microsoft software.
Microsoft Windows
You can now use the Windows Validation Assistant to help you determine if your Windows XP or Server 2003 operating system is genuine. View Windows Products
Microsoft Office
Most Microsoft Office products now come with a copper edge-to-edge holographic CD. View Office Products
Home and Games
Verify that the Microsoft products you use at home are genuine. Includes PC games and Xbox. View Home and Games products
Hardware
Each genuine Microsoft mouse and keyboard has a holographic label affixed to the bottom. View Hardware products
More Information
If you need more information on How to Tell the difference click here.
Report Piracy
Call the Microsoft Anti-piracy Hotline on +65 - 6324 5211
