From time to time, we encounter readers who have unknowingly downloaded counterfeit software. It is only after attempting to install or seek support for the product that they discover the trouble. No doubt it’s a frustrating experience, but one that can be avoided.
One frequent story we hear is people buying software from third parties, especially someone offering an incredible deal on Adobe products. Offers of “cheap OEM” software and 80% discounts just aren’t credible. The old adage applies, “if something sounds too good to be true, it usually is”… (Only Adobe’s Student & Teacher Editions can legally be offered at significant discounts, but are clearly labeled as such).
Another common thread exists among users who purchase Adobe products with modest discounts from non-authorized resellers on Amazon Marketplace, Best Buy Marketplace and through other similar sites – like eBay, Reddit, or Craigslist. Users, in these cases, believe they’re purchasing from Amazon or Best Buy, but are instead buying from random sellers who post illegitimate offers through Marketplace channels or display ads on these sites.
“Free Photoshop Downloads” are Not Actually Free
Another alarming trend is the increasing prevalence of harmful malware in pirated software. This is now very common through file sharing and torrents, for those looking for cracks, keygens, “portable” versions (which don’t legitimately exist), or files such as “amtlib.dll” or “GenP”… But these are dangerous: Studies show that over 60% of non-genuine software includes embedded malware.
A recent IEEE analysis of 750 crack downloads confirms this high level of risk, warning that anti-virus and other security programs miss these infections as often as 70% of the time. The report concludes: “Given the potential for malware to steal information or create malicious backdoors, its high prevalence within pirated software poses a substantial security risk to end users.”
Taken a step further, what this means is that even a cheap or “free version” online isn’t really free because you may be paying for it with an undetected breach which installs a virus on your system that steals your financial info and compromises your other personal files and private data.
Quoting one news article:
The second Trojan was discovered Sunday, hidden inside torrented copies of Adobe Systems’ Photoshop program. Once installed, the backdoor software silently lets someone else take remote control of the computer and rob the sensitive data upon it.
In addition to viruses and spyware, using inauthentic or unlicensed software found online through Reddit and elsewhere will expose you to other problems, including system crashes and bugs, as well as no support, training, or upgrades.
How to Protect Yourself Against Infections and Hacks
Rule #1: Avoid disreputable sources and untrusted or unfamiliar sellers!
Rules #2 and #3: See Rule #1.
Put plainly, the best way to ensure you purchase genuine software and not get duped is to buy the product directly from Adobe itself. That way there is zero chance of fakes and counterfeits, and the pricing is usually the same (or close) because Adobe products are not heavily discounted outside of the company.
Adobe’s site also offers a list of Authorized Resellers which can be a handy reference to help avoid situations like these. Purchasing and downloading software directly from adobe.com or alternatively via an official Authorized Reseller guarantees that you will receive Adobe Genuine software.
Be aware that Adobe products can only be legally downloaded from these sites – and no others. If you see something elsewhere, it’s definitely a fake.
To avoid fraud when buying Creative Cloud, the most important thing to know is that it is a subscription-only product and Adobe does not offer permanent or lifetime or perpetual licenses… There is no such thing as non-subscription versions with one-off purchases. There does exist a free level of membership – but for the major apps like Photoshop or Acrobat, this includes only a free trial.
Have You Received an Adobe Genuine Service Alert?
To protect customers from the risks of counterfeit software, Adobe applications self-test for software modifications and invalid license keys or serial numbers. When these are found, the program will notify you. If you see one of these notifications – an “Adobe Genuine Service Alert” or “Adobe Genuine Software Integrity Service” notice or other “unlicensed app” warning – click on the link provided to see what you can do about it. You may be eligible for a discount.
If you have non-genuine software on your computer or have received an AGS alert, what steps should you take? As the best protection against the security risks, Adobe recommends that you attempt to uninstall the bogus software, reformat the hard drive, then run current anti-virus tools to remove as many traces of it as possible, and then install Adobe Genuine software:
» How to remove pirated Adobe software from your computer
Reactions to this will certainly range from “users who pirate software get what they deserve” to the invariable “Adobe is just trying to scare you into buying their software.” Of course, Adobe engineers would like their efforts to be paid for. Who wouldn’t? In all honesty, they also want people to be successful with their products and avoid the stress and heartache of being scammed or hacked.
For More Assistance and Information
To conclude, we’ve provided a few links below to help users make informed decisions, ensure you get Adobe Genuine Software, and avoid phony products, costly scams, and devastating malware. Please see:
» Six important steps you can take to prevent fraud
» What is counterfeit software? How can I tell if it’s real or fraudulent?
» Risks associated with piracy (and counterfeit products)
» How to report Adobe piracy or suspicious Adobe email phishing
And if Adobe’s regular product prices are out of reach for you, see if you qualify for their deeply-discounted education versions, which are much lower priced for students, teachers, and staff at all levels – even homeschoolers.
See Also
- The 10 most common myths about Creative Cloud
- Don’t miss Adobe’s current specials and promotions
- Download free Adobe books (choose over 30 titles)
- Don’t need full Cloud? Get PS + LR for $9.99/month
- Free Adobe Stock! Download 1,000,000+ top images
- How to join Adobe’s Creative Cloud for free
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