Downloading cracked software comes with many risks that far outweigh the advantages of getting something for free. There’s a reason why developers and cybersecurity experts strongly advise against it.
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It’s Illegal, and Penalties Are Expensive
In many countries, accessing, downloading, copying, or using cracked software falls within the definition of software piracy and is considered illegal. It violates the intellectual property rights of researchers and developers and robs them of their revenue. According to Norton, a software pirate is anyone who copies software or uses pirated software, even if unintentional. Depending on your country’s copyright laws, the penalties can be expensive and, in some extreme cases, may even involve jail time.
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It May Contain Malware Like InfoStealers or RATs
Cracks and keygens or “free” versions of popular and expensive apps are notorious baits hackers use to lure victims into downloading malware. Scammers often trick you with videos posing as guides or tutorials with a link to download the app for free in the video description or the comments. Once you click, you’ll be taken to a popular file hosting site, which they use to evade detection. The infection is triggered once you execute the installer you downloaded. These downloads are bundled with infostealers and other types of malware that can pilfer your sensitive information.
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Some cracked software comes with remote access Trojans (RATs) that are triggered once you execute the setup file. It then communicates with the hackers’ Command and Control (C2) servers through malware beaconing. This signals the attackers that they’ve successfully infiltrated your system and can now send commands to control your device. Your zombie device will then be used to launch DDoS attacks.
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It Can Cause Permanent Damage to Your Device
In some cases, downloading cracks and keygens can cause permanent damage to your device. It may contain bugs or vulnerabilities that can cause your device to malfunction or overheat. This can damage internal components like your motherboard and GPU. It can also carry viruses that will compromise your firmware, damage your system, and render your device inoperable.
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Malware-Free Cracks Can’t Be Updated, Leaving Your Device Vulnerable to Infection
On the off chance that you find a malware-free crack, you have to remember that this “free” software cannot be updated. Security patches are regularly released—but only to legitimate software users. Since you are using cracked software, you will not be able to download and install patches to fix vulnerabilities or get updates to improve its security. This makes your device vulnerable to cyberattacks and malware infections.
While it’s tempting to get software for free, doing so may eventually cause you more problems, especially considering the damage it can cause to your device, data, and finances.
