How To Fix "You May Be A Victim Of Software Counterfeiting" Error

At present, there are more than 1 billion PCs that are using Microsoft Windows. And all these users use something other than Genuine Microsoft Windows. A considerable amount of users are operating pirated versions of Windows. This thing has forced Microsoft to take action against these pirated Windows. Now Microsoft is bugging the entire pirated and non-genuine Windows version. This article will teach us how to fix the “You May Be A Victim Of Software Counterfeiting” error.

If you are a Windows user and using it without any license or using its pirated version, then there you might come across this error “You may be a victim of software counterfeiting error. This copy of Windows is not genuine and is not eligible to receive the full range of upgrades and product support from Microsoft”. Users who are using or have used non-genuine version of Windows knows very well about this popup.

You’ll be able to read on to learn more about this problem.

How To Fix You May Be A Victim Of Software Counterfeiting Error: Explained

This error or popup shows up when you try to update your Windows over the internet; at that time, this popup window will occur in front of you. The only reason is that you update a non Genuine copy of Windows. This is called Windows Genuine Advantage or (WGA) it is an anti-piracy system created by Microsoft that enforces online validation of the licensing of several recent Microsoft Windows operating systems when accessing several services, such as Windows Update, and downloading Windows components from the Microsoft Download Center.

This problem is common on Windows XP, but nowadays, it also appears on Windows 7 and Windows 8. So if you are facing this problem, you are at the right place. I have some ways to fix this error in a few minutes.

Note:- If your copy of Windows is genuine and you are facing this error, restore your system. On updating, if this error occurs, then system restores may solve your problem.

Steps to Fix You May Be A Victim Of Software Counterfeiting Error

If you can’t restore the system, follow the guide below to fix this error.

Launch Windows Task Manager (Shortcut Key- Ctrl+Alt+Del).

After, switch to the Process tab, search for process “Wgatray.exe,” select it simply, and click on end process.

Then restart your PC and Log-in into Safe Mode by Pressing F8 continuously before the Windows boot screen appears.

Now go to this location C: WindowsSystem32 search and delete
Wgatray.exe file from there.
Also, delete Wgatray.exe from this location C: WindowsSystem32dllcache (dllcache might be hidden, enable hidden files from folder options).
Now press Window Key+R and type regedit to open Registry Editor.

Navigate to the HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftWindows NTCurrentVersionWinlogonNotify key.

Delete the folder names as WgaLogon and all its contents.

restart your system to enable the changes.

If this method doesn’t work, download a small tool, RemoveWGA. This little tool claims it can remove the intentionally-deployed Windows Genuine Advanced Notification, which could make things a little quieter for your computer.

Especially since the update, which is being flagged as ‘Important,’ could pose a security risk as it opens a connection to Microsoft’s servers every time the files are loaded.

If you have any more doubts, you can check out the video below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eh8CsRRDS5M

FAQs

What are the potential consequences of using counterfeit software?

Using counterfeit software is illegal and comes with several risks. Fake software may lack critical security updates, making your system vulnerable to malware and other security threats. Additionally, it may lead to system instability, performance issues, and limitations on software functionality. Legal consequences may also apply for using unauthorized copies of software.

Can I seek support from the software vendor to resolve the error?

Yes, you can seek support from the software vendor or the manufacturer of your operating system. They can guide you through resolving the software counterfeiting error and help you obtain genuine software licenses.

How can I prevent encountering the software counterfeiting error in the future?

Always use genuine, adequately licensed software obtained from authorized sources to prevent encountering software counterfeiting errors. Keep your software up to date with the latest security patches and updates. Be cautious of suspicious websites or unauthorized sellers offering discounted software, as they are more likely to provide counterfeit copies.

Summing Up

The “You may be a victim of software counterfeiting” error indicates that the installed Windows version may not be genuine or has been activated using unauthorized methods. Resolving this error is crucial to ensure proper functionality and compliance with licensing agreements. The above steps were a simple trick to remove this error. I hope this helps you.

Please feel free to leave a comment below if you have any questions.

Rahul Gupta

He is a Tech Geek, Gadget Expert, SEO Expert, Web Designer, and a Blogger. Having a technology background gives him a unique perspective!