Microsoft has recently updated the terms and conditions of its European License Agreement (EULA)as part of its actions to combat pirated hardware and software.
With the new terms, the company now has the power to check Windows 10 devices and disable counterfeit programs.
As noted by NDTV, Microsoft has been in a long battle against pirated contain such as apps, programs and video games. Being a major publisher of games, the prevalence of counterfeit titles can significantly affect the overall sales of the company.
Aside from Microsoft, other development studios have conducted necessary steps to prevent their games from being reproduced illegally. Apple and Google are also facing the same problems with jailbreak versions of their iOS and Android operating systems.
Although Microsoft did not go into detail as to how Windows 10 will be used against counterfeit software and hardware, the company stated in the EULA that the operating system will systematically scan devices that it is installed on.
Once fake programs have been detected, they will automatically be disabled or uninstalled from the system.
"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 unauthorized hardware peripheral devices," Microsoft wrote in the terms and conditions.
According to PC Authority, the term "unauthorized hardware peripheral devices" could mean Xbox One and Xbox 360 controllers that have been modified illegally. But, it is not yet clear if these kinds of accessories are covered by the company's new EULA guidelines.
Based on the updates to EULA, it seems Microsoft is currently focused on gaming devices such as consoles and computers. But, it's safe to assume that the same conditions will also be applied to other platforms as well such as tablets and smartphones.
In addition, the coverage could also expand beyond games to include unauthorized versions of Microsoft Office programs.
The update to Microsoft's terms and conditions is the company's latest step in its fight against counterfeit content.
In August last year, the company revised the policies of the Windows Store. Under the new provisions, app developers must make sure that the names of their creations accurately match their purposes or functions.
The apps should also be categorized properly and must also be submitted with proper and original icons.
According to the company, the revisions were made after users filed complaints to Microsoft regarding misleading titles of apps featured in the Windows Store.
