How to spot cracked or fake software (and why it matters)

Cracked software is everywhere in Pakistan, and it's often sold as “original”. It looks like a bargain until it stops working, locks you out, or infects your PC. Here's how to tell the difference.

7 warning signs

1. It comes with an “activator” or “patch”. Genuine software never asks you to run a separate tool, disable your antivirus, or replace files.
2. “Lifetime” for a subscription product. Adobe Creative Cloud and Microsoft 365 are subscriptions, so a genuine one has a renewal date. One-time “lifetime Photoshop” is a crack.
3. A shared login that “you must not change”. Shared accounts get locked without warning, and other people can see your files.
4. Downloads from random file sites. Real installers come from microsoft.com, adobe.com and the software maker's own site.
5. The price is too good to be true. Very cheap prices with no order details or support usually mean it's cracked.
6. Features don't work. Cloud features, AI tools like Generative Fill, and updates are often broken on cracked copies.
7. The seller disappears after you pay. Genuine sellers give you an order number, written policies and after-sales support.

Why it matters

• Security: cracks and activators are a common way malware and password stealers get onto PCs.
• Your work: unstable software crashes, and you can lose projects or get locked out before a deadline.
• No updates: you miss security fixes and new features.
• Clients and business: companies increasingly ask freelancers to use licensed tools.

How to check your own software

• Windows: Settings → System → Activation should say Active. Run slmgr /dli to see the licence type (what the types mean).
• Office: in Word, go to File → Account. It should say “Product Activated”.
• Adobe: your plan should appear on your Adobe account's Plans page, under your own email.

The genuine alternative

At Tecvane we sell only genuine licences and subscriptions: official keys, plans on your own account, installers from official sources (see official downloads), and a written refund and warranty policy. Lifetime keys come with a 1-year replacement warranty, and subscriptions are covered for their full period.

Browse genuine software or read the activation guides.