While users running pirated Windows will still be running pirated Windows after the upgrade to Windows 10, the company is still planning to 're-engage' pirates by making the upgrade path straight-forward.

In current versions of Windows, Microsoft prevents users from customizing their install or using certain features if it detects a non-genuine copy, unless a crack has been installed. This will likely mean that non-genuine users will be subject to anti-piracy countermeasures after the upgrade to Windows 10, if previous versions are anything to go by. However, their Windows license will remain invalid after the upgrade process is complete, meaning they won't really be getting a 'free' upgrade to Windows 10. Microsoft has clarified that people who are running a pirated copy of Windows will be able to upgrade to Windows 10 relatively easily.

The news seemed a little strange at the time, considering Microsoft's previous stance on piracy, so it's not hugely surprising to discover that it was too good to be true. One story that circulated a couple of days ago claimed that Microsoft would be giving pirates of their operating system a free upgrade to Windows 10.