In a country where the Business Software Alliance/IDC Global Piracy Study estimates 79% of software to be counterfeit, it is an ongoing challenge for consumers to distinguish the real from the fake1. In fact, many people understand the real dangers posed to their privacy and security by using counterfeit software and would choose genuine software given the option, but with the presence of so much high-quality fake software in the market today, most consumers believe they could not spot counterfeit software on their own. To call attention to the dangers of software counterfeiting around the globe, Microsoft holds a “Consumer Action Day” each year to raise awareness of the new Microsoft technologies and cooperation with law enforcement agencies that prevent counterfeiting, as well as the educational resources that can help consumers in Kenya stay safe with genuine software.
“Since 2005, we have heard from more than 300,000 consumers around the world who have submitted details to the Microsoft “How to Tell” Web site http://www.microsoft.com/howtotell/about fake software that left their computers infected with viruses and malware, or that simply didn’t work as advertised,” said Lawrence Kinyanjui, Anti-Piracy Conversion Manager, Microsoft East and Southern Africa. “These consumers are asking what they can do to protect themselves against data loss or identity theft. They want facts.”
To level the playing field for honest partners who sell genuine Microsoft software and to help ensure that our consumers are protected from the risks associated with pirated software in Kenya, Microsoft has also partnered with The Kenya Anti counterfeit Agency. The Agency officers recently underwent a training conducted by Microsoft aimed at equipping them with skills to identify counterfeit Microsoft products.

Harry Chager, Chief Executive Officer, Computer Revolution Africa, can attest to how difficult it is to tell the difference between genuine and counterfeit software: “The discs come shrink-wrapped and look good, but will usually not validate,” said Mr. Chager. “Even though it is hard to tell the difference between counterfeit software and the real thing, if customers can check out the “How to Tell” Web site (http://www.microsoft.com/howtotell/) they will be able to spot signs that differentiate the two. I strongly urge anyone shopping for Microsoft software to visit this site before making any purchases. “This will definitely save them a lot of time and money.”

To confidently buy genuine software in Kenya take this checklist with you when you go shopping:

1. Activation and validation are the keys to genuine software. Before purchasing your software, ask the resellers if they can confirm that it will pass the Windows activation test. Once you receive the software, activate it immediately to determine whether it is properly licensed and genuine. If it isn’t genuine, you should contact the retailer or seller to seek redress.

1. Buy from a trusted source. Genuine Microsoft software is published by Microsoft Corp., properly licensed and fully supported by Microsoft or a trusted partner. Before purchasing, do your homework and check local resources for reputable resellers . You can also visit http://www.microsoft.com to purchase genuine Microsoft software and gain access to technical support.

1. Compare the price. Check the seller’s prices against the estimated retail value of the software. If the price for software seems too good to be true, it probably is and should be avoided. Some sellers even advertise Microsoft products for “free,” which is a strong indication that it is counterfeit and likely loaded with malware and malicious code that could cost you hundreds or thousands of dollars in the long term.

1. Check the label, package and discs. Be suspicious of software products that do not include proof of authenticity, such as a hologram CD, DVD, recovery media, manuals and Microsoft Software License Terms (MSLT). Genuine Microsoft software should appear primarily copper in color and the hologram has a wavy effect.

1. Say no to backup software copies. Do not buy from sellers offering backup copies or bundles of several programs.

1. Understand the risks of digital counterfeiting. Digital counterfeiting has become a serious global problem that puts people at risk of spyware, malware and viruses that can lead to identity theft, loss of data and more. Consumers should watch for the following common gateways:

• Websites that go by names such as “cheap software” that offer to sell Microsoft software via downloads
• Online auction sites where links to download sites offering counterfeit software can be found
• Peer-to-peer (P2P) networks or other file-sharing technologies

1. Keep your anti-virus software up-to-date. This is your first line of defense and will reduce your computer’s risk of exposure to viruses and malware when downloading software. Also, install a firewall to protect your computer from unauthorized access by hackers. Microsoft offers free anti-virus programs for customers who use genuine software at http://www.microsoft.com/security_essentials.

1. Report piracy. Microsoft encourages victims of software counterfeiting to report counterfeiting so that other consumers are aware of the risks. Report counterfeiting by e-mail at Piracy@microsoft.com or call the Kenya Anti-Counterfeit Agency on 0772062912 or simply report online at http://www.howtotell.com.

For more information about Microsoft’s significant investment in education, engineering and enforcement against the risks of counterfeit software, please visit: http://www.microsoft.com/genuine.