To protect users’ privacy and security, Microsoft regularly upgrades Windows with brand-new features, bug fixes, and security enhancements that make the system more impenetrable and secure.

Microsoft won’t provide updates to your copy of Windows if it learns that it is a pirated version. Without routine updates, you won’t be able to access new features, bugs will accumulate and compromise your security, and you’ll constantly be concerned about a breach.

2. Windows That Has Been Pirated Is Less Secure

Using a pirated edition of Windows could be the worst choice you’ve ever made if you want to work primarily on your Windows PC and store all of your sensitive information there.

Because pirated copies are not updated, viruses and malware are more likely to infect them. Additionally, a single virus variant, such as the infamous ransomware, has the power to delete or lock you out of your files.

In addition to random attacks, the individual from whom you obtained Windows may have infected the pirated version with malware. As a result, you receive a lot more with your download than you anticipated, and you can’t take that chance without Microsoft’s assistance.

3. Decline in Performance

Similar to how routine Windows updates keep your machine safe, they also support maintaining the operating system’s performance. The performance of your system will probably deteriorate if you don’t upgrade it for a while.

And as we just discussed, that does not include any malware that was packed with the operating system. For instance, the distributor might have installed a cryptojacker on your computer, in which case he would be secretly mining cryptocurrency using the resources of your system.

Your computer will run slower because it won’t have as many resources to use for the remaining processing when it’s under such a heavy strain. Therefore, avoid piracy if you don’t want your system to crash, freeze, lag, or take long to process things.

4. Limited Access to Microsoft Products and Run the Risk of Getting Banned

Running a pirated version of Windows has the additional drawback of making it difficult to use other Microsoft products with assurance. Even if you have paid for the other services you use, Microsoft has the right to terminate your access to them at any time if they discover fraudulent licensing information.

You might also be prevented from using the majority of Microsoft’s services, including its store. As a result, you would have to use only third-party applications up until the point where you upgrade to a legitimate Windows copy. Therefore, you should avoid piracy at all means if you love Microsoft’s products and services and can’t imagine life without them.

5. You May Be Spied On by Hackers

Genuine Windows creates a connection with the Windows activation server when it is activated using the original product key. It has a potential to begin spying on you when you activate it using third-party activators because of the server it connects to.

Moving ahead, you would be monitored whenever you used your computer, and all crucial data you entered into the program might be secretly uploaded to their servers. If you are oblivious of what is going on in the background, it could get you into a lot of problems.

Along with stealing your personal information, hackers could change crucial data, which, if it’s sensitive, could have legal repercussions.

6. You May End Up Behind Bars

Generally speaking, if you solely use a pirated edition of Windows on your computer, you won’t get caught operating it. However, if you use a cracked version of Windows on a computer that is visible to the public, like one in your business, you risk facing severe repercussions.

The widespread unlawful use of cracked Windows 10 could be reported to Microsoft if someone observes you using a pirated copy of Windows. Then you can face legal action from Microsoft or one of its approved agents. You can receive a severe penalty in addition to being imprisoned.