Get free copy of XP from Microsoft - if you're a pirate

[Colin Dunstan]

Microsoft has announced what it hopes will be a new attack on piracy - the Redmond-based giant has decided to give away free software to those who bought machines with fake copies pre-installed.

Microsoft will be offering anyone who's "unsure" about whether they've got dodgy software the chance to have it checked out by Microsoft, with the promise that if it does turn out to be counterfeit, they'll replace it.

The deal only covers Windows XP and only five copies per person can be swapped. It's all free, bar the initial postage and package. The offer only applies to pre-installed home or professional Windows XP bought before 1 November.

To get a replacement copy of Windows XP, PC users will need to send off their receipt and complete a witness statement, revealing where they bought their knock-off software. More information can be found http://www.microsoft.com/uk/piracy/g...n/default.mspx