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General discussion

OnlineEyePro - Illegal Version

Oct 16, 2009 7:34PM PDT

I have a screen capture shot of the message, but cannot attach it here. I downloaded the software on a free trial basis as stated on CnetDownload.com, that clearly states free trial for 30 days. I had only been running the software for a few days and the 'Crack Detection' message showed up on startup of my computer. I had noticed a window trying to open several times, but then disappearing before I could see what it was, then it finally stayed on. And it threatens with 'within 72 hours'!

The message reads: "You are using an illegal version of OnlineEyePro!
As we have your name and IP adress we will send this information to the relevant government office of your country as well as the BSA (Business Software Alliance) if you don't register your illegal version of OnlineEyePro within 72 hours."

I spoke to a computer technician/ programmer. He said that it could be a fraudulent force to purchase/ give details or a marketing ploy to buy the software sooner rather than later. He said that if it was genuine, that it might be because I saved the download to my desktop before installing it, triggering the message as if I was running an 'illegal copy'. He suggested that I uninstall it and reinstall it straight onto Run.

But the same message has popped up again, and again a few days after installation instead of straight away. Please advise URGENTLY as I cannot afford to purchase the software at this time, but I will be able to in 2-4 weeks. I am definately very interested in doing so. However, I do prefer to give it a try first for more than just "72 hours/ a few days"!

I have e-mailed the relevant software company, but have had no response as yet.

Discussion is locked

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RE: OnlineEyePro - Illegal Version
Oct 17, 2009 3:33AM PDT

I would not consider the warning to be of concern and agree with you that it is likely just a tactic to entice you to purchase said software. Saving the installer to your desktop prior to installation would not cause such an issue to arise, but it could use anti-piracy countermeasures that detect software that could potentially be used by pirates and trigger such an alert. However, that is unlikely, especially given the time lapse, is prone to false-positives, and is not grounds for legal action against you for pirating their software. Regardless, I have alerted our forum administrator so that the Download.com team can investigate and address any potential issues. A follow-up should be posted here within the next few business days.

Regards,
John

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I agree with John
Oct 17, 2009 7:13PM PDT

Any warning like that saying they have your IP address and they will report you, etc, is just nonsense.

It's strange, because the software developer, PMASoft.net appears to be a 'bricks and mortar' company, and that is normally a good sign. There web site shows an actual address; http://www.pmasoft.net/company.htm

However, my personal view is that using tactics like that disqualifies such companies from my interest and custom, and I would walk away. You say you can afford to pay for this software in a couple of weeks. I would be reluctant to pass any information over, such as credit card details, to this type of firm. I see they have a PayPal option which is more secure, but that type of business tactic puts me off.

Mark

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Just to double check--Is this the title?
Oct 19, 2009 4:26AM PDT