Microsoft has a new plan to clamp down on game piracy with Windows 10, according to a new discovery.
Microsoft has just updated its Windows 10 end-user licence agreement for Windows 10, and it reveals that the latest version of its operating system has issues with game piracy.
Windows 10 is actually capable of identifying when counterfeit or unauthorised software is running and will then disable it.
In 7B of the EULA for Windows 10, as spotted by Alphr, Microsoft outlines its ability to immobilise pirated software and hardware.
“We may automatically check your version of the software and download software updates or configuration changes, including those that prevent you from accessing the Services, playing counterfeit games, or using unauthorised hardware peripheral devices,” reads the notice.
That basically means that any illegally acquired games running on your Windows 10 PC, Windows smartphones or tablets, can be totally disabled by Microsoft.
It isn’t quite clear what’s meant by “unauthorised hardware peripheral devices” however, but it might be something to do with modified controllers that give gamers an unfair advantage in games.
SEE ALSO: Best PC Games 2015
Piracy is still a huge issue for PC gaming, since even though services such as Steam have employed DRM to protect content, games are still shared through torrent sites.
Windows 10 is being positioned as a key part of Microsoft’s games business, so it isn’t a surprise to see the company taking steps to clamp down on game piracy.
Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.