how to tell fake windows 7 ultimate from the real thing without openin

rossmodel · 23 Jan 2011

I bought a copy of Windows 7 ultimate off ebay, at the time when I activated the key, everything was fine, until recent when I reformatted my PC I realised that I have been scammed, the key I have a MSDN key, the disk inside in fake because the hologram can be peeled off.

I can not activate the key because MS have blocked my key, which means I have wasted my money. In the future how can I tell if my version is real or fake without opening the plastic wrap, that way I can at least claim a refund.

If there is a link of real w7 and fake w7 side by side, that would be great.

Thanks.

logicearth · 23 Jan 2011

You are better off not buying any software from ebay or other untrusted sources. Go to brand name places, Amazon, Best Buy, Newegg...Microsoft Store, etc. So if something like this happens again you are not up a creek without a paddle. You may pay more but the risk is not worth the cheaper price.

The best way to make sure you get a legit copy is to buy directly from the company of the software.
For example: http://store.microsoft.com

Golden · 23 Jan 2011

With something as importrant as an OS, I always buy directly from the Microsoft store. That way there is never any doubt that my product is genuine.

Anthony · 23 Jan 2011

Don't forget to report the guy that sold it to you, he will get his account removed!!

boogieboy · 23 Jan 2011

Always buy retail/original product from the store :)

kodi · 23 Jan 2011

Anthony said:

Don't forget to report the guy that sold it to you, he will get his account removed!!

+1.

Anthony · 23 Jan 2011

E-Bay should reimburse the Victim for allowing it to go on!!

theog · 23 Jan 2011

eBay View About Me for msnetsafeteam

Kari · 23 Jan 2011

I have recommended this site to those suspecting they are victims of counterfeit: How to Tell. The counterfeit gallery have some really good telltales: http://www.microsoft.com/howtotell/c...pg=counterfeit and http://www.microsoft.com/howtotell/c...displaylang=en.

Kari

James Colbert · 23 Jan 2011

theog said:

eBay View About Me for msnetsafeteam

Good link. The OP may also want to see if any recourse is available here:

eBay Buyer Protection

James