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Office 2010 'Kill switch'?

The licence for Office 2010 makes Microsoft’s intention to use a ‘kill switch’ even clearer.

Microsoft Office 2010 seems more likely to have a ‘kill switch’ to stop illegal use of the software even after activation. The licence terms (aka EULA) are more specific about what Microsoft may do if they detect illegal use of Microsoft Office.

At present, Microsoft can allow/disallow use of Office via the product activation system. Your computer details and Office product key are sent to Microsoft, who send back a code to allow continued use of the software. Once activated the software should continue to operate.

The ‘Kill switch’ means that Office can occasionally check back to Microsoft, to see if the software is still properly licensed. If Microsoft believes that the software is now invalid (even though it approved use previously), for whatever reason, it can send warnings, limit the features available or totally disable Office.

That means software activation isn’t the end of Microsoft’s approval – the company can check your licence, withdraw your Office licence at any time and without giving a reason. Nor is there any clear appeal process.

The ‘kill switch’ was possible in Office 2007 and permitted in the software licence – we have a copy here. However Microsoft said they would not use the ‘kill switch’ after an outcry.

For Office 2010 the ‘validation’ section has been made more explicit with the actions that Microsoft may take if they believe the software is illegal.

Will Microsoft use the ‘kill switch’ in Office 2010? That’s not known, however they are clearly setting the legal stage for doing so.

Here’s an excerpt from the Office 2010 software licence – the bold text by Office-Watch.com. You can view the entire software licence here.

5. VALIDATION.

a. The software will from time to time request download of the validation feature of the software. Validation verifies that the software has been activated and is properly licensed. A validation check confirming that you are properly licensed permits you to use the software, certain features of the software or to obtain additional benefits. For more information, see www.microsoft.com/genuine/office/WhyValidate.aspx.

b. During or after a validation check, the software may send information about the software, the device and the results of the validation check to Microsoft. This information includes, for example, the version and product key of the software and the Internet protocol address of the licensed device. Microsoft does not use the information to identify or contact you. BY USING THE SOFTWARE, YOU CONSENT TO THE TRANSMISSION OF THIS INFORMATION. For more information about validation and what is sent during or after a validation check, see  www.microsoft.com/genuine/office/PrivacyInfo.aspx.

c. If, after a validation check, the software is found to be counterfeit, improperly licensed, or a non-genuine Office product then the functionality or experience of using the software may be affected. For example,

Microsoft may

• provide notice that the software is improperly licensed or a non-genuine Office product;

and you may

• receive reminders to obtain a properly licensed copy of the software; or

• need to follow Microsoft’s instructions to be licensed to use the software and reactivate;

and you may not be able to

• use or continue to use the software or some of the features of the software; or

• obtain certain updates or upgrades from Microsoft.

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