Windows will show “not genuine” messages if your copy of Windows isn’t properly activated. Product activation is necessary so that Microsoft knows that you obtained Windows legally and to limit the number of computers the same product key is used on.
The first explanation is that you did not purchase Windows and are most likely running a pirated version.
You might have attempted to use a key that has already been used on another device.
Most probably, you’re using an out-of-date version, and your operating system needs an update.
Another reason could be that a virus or malware has compromised your original key.
Windows will show “not genuine” messages if your copy of Windows isn’t properly activated. Product activation is necessary so that Microsoft knows that you obtained Windows legally and to limit the number of computers the same product key is used on.
The first explanation is that you did not purchase Windows and are most likely running a pirated version.
You might have attempted to use a key that has already been used on another device.
Most probably, you’re using an out-of-date version, and your operating system needs an update.
Another reason could be that a virus or malware has compromised your original key.
If you are using a non-original or non-identical Windows, you will see a notification every hour. The notification informs you that it is not original and that you need help to activate it. Your desktop background will turn black every hour – even if you change it, it will come back.
If my computer only has non-genuine Windows software installed, can it still receive critical security updates? Yes. You may continue to receive important security updates.
Follow the steps above to access the command line.
Enter slmgr.vbs /dli
Press Enter.
Check the Windows Script Host.
If the license status is “Licensed”, you have Windows Original.
End the “Microsoft Windows is not genuine” process. Press Ctrl+Alt+Del at the same time
Open Windows Task Manager
Select the process associated with the Microsoft Windows is not genuine message and look for the End Process button.
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Method 1: Use the slmgr.vbs /dli command. Step 1: Click the Windows logo and the R key on your keyboard in Windows 10 to open the Run dialog box. Step 2: Type slmgr.vbs /dli but also press Enter to see the license of the document. Here slmgr means production software license.
1. Type RUN regedit or search in the start menu and press Enter. It opens the registry editor. 2. Now navigate to the audience key HKEY_USERS\S-1-5-20: 3. Right-click on the “S-1-5-20” key and select “Permissions…”. A new window will appear. 4. Select “NETWORK SERVICE” from the list of users, and also check the “Allow” box for the “Full Control” permission.
Avoid reliability risks and get the real Office now” or “Your license is not genuine and you could be a victim of fake software…. Method 2: Disable additional plug-ins
4 Ways to Fix Windows Error “You May Be a Victim of Counterfeit Software”
1. Type RUN regedit in the Start menu search box and press Enter. It opens the public registry editor. 2. Now navigate to the following key: HKEY_USERS\S-1-5-20 3. Right-click on the “S-1-5-20” key and select “Permissions…”. A new window will open. 4. Select “NETWORK SERVICE” in the user list test, and check the “Allow” box for the “Full Control” permission.
Avoid secondary risks and get the real Office now” or “Your license is not genuine, so you could be a victim of fake software… Method 2: Disable wired extras.
Ways to Fix the “You May Have Been the Victim of a Software Error” Error in Windows
I’m Ahmir, a freelance writer and editor who specializes in technology and business. My work has been featured on many of the most popular tech blogs and websites for more than 10 years. Efficient-soft.com is where I regularly contribute to my writings about the latest tech trends. Apart from my writing, I am also a certified project manager professional (PMP).