Why not download some cracked software and save a few bucks? Are you thinking like that? Hum, think again. You're putting yourself at risk for malware, security risks, and copyright theft. This article will let you know what the severe damage of cracked(pirate) software is.

It might be costly to purchase new software. When you need new software for your computer, you have two alternatives: find a free option or pay for possibly expensive software. To avoid these fees, some people choose to download pirated or cracked software.

This software has been pirated via file-sharing networks and is accessed unlawfully using a stolen or created unlock code.

Software that has been cracked or illegally obtained poses a greater security risk than you might think. Downloading and using unauthorized software carries several risks, which are listed below.


01) Malware Infections

In many cases, unauthorized software downloads are loaded with malicious software. For example, Cybereason, a security organization, claims that over 500,000 workstations have been infected with malware because of a single hacked program. In addition, users who have downloaded and installed cracked software are at risk of having their personal information stolen by the malware that hides inside the software itself. And it can even go on to download new viruses, making the matter even worse.

These threats could conduct a wide variety of invasive actions. According to the research, there are two types of malware: Azorult Infostealer and Predator, The Thief.

Predator, the Thief collects passwords from web browsers and potentially steals cryptocurrency wallets from users' computers. Or, it might take images with the camera and take screenshots, allowing it to acquire incredibly personal info.

Azorult Infostealer also takes browsing history, usernames, passwords, cookies, and cryptocurrency information.


02) You Might Infect Other Devices on Your Network

Some users might not know that cracked software is more than just a security risk for their device. When you connect to the internet through your home network, your device exchanges data with other network devices such as phones, tablets, and PCs. This means that if malware infects your device, it has the potential to propagate.

Malware can migrate across networks once it has breached the security of one device through cracked software. If one family member downloads cracked software, the entire family's gadgets might be vulnerable.

It's considerably worse for organizations, which often have networks of hundreds or thousands of computers. For example, a single employee who downloads cracked software onto a work computer can spread a virus into the entire business network, even if it is over their home network. And if you inadvertently infect your workplace's network with malware, you could face disciplinary action or even fire.

03) You Must Visit Untrustworthy Websites

Another reason to be wary of cracked software is the websites that distribute it. To download cracked software, you must go to cracking-specific websites. These websites are already in violation of the law.

Cracking sites frequently feature popups or redirects that move your browser to more harmful sites. As a result, you are putting yourself in danger of adware attacks or possibly ransomware.

04) The software may not function properly.

When you download pirated software, there is no guarantee that it will function properly. Many businesses take precautions to keep their software from being pirated. As a result, you may discover that the software never performs in the first place. Alternatively, it may work for a short period before stopping to function.

Additionally, you will be unable to get updates for cracked software. This means that you will be unable to obtain updated software features. Concerningly, you will not receive security updates as a result. When a security vulnerability in a piece of software is detected, the firm responsible for the product will typically release a fix as soon as possible.

Even additional security risks could arise if you continue to run the software without updating it. Hackers can gain access to your computer's data by exploiting software flaws.

05) Possibility of Legal Issues

Software that has been hacked is illegal to download or use. In addition, there are a variety of punishments if you are caught using it.

One of the more modest effects is that the program manufacturer may temporarily or permanently block you. A pirated Adobe Photoshop, for example, may result in a ban from using any of Adobe's products in the future. If you rely on this software for your work, this could be a severe issue.

Particularly with cracked games, this is a significant issue. Anyone caught downloading and playing online a game they illegally downloaded will be punished for their actions. This can result in a ban from the game and online gaming platforms such as Xbox Live. In the case of that platform, you would not be able to play any online games at all.

Alternatively, if you are discovered with pirated software, you may be fined. In the United States, these fines can go up to $250,000. If you are detected distributing pirated software, you may be sentenced to prison.

In this article, we've outlined a few of the security dangers associated with utilizing cracked software.

If you use illegal software, you run the risk of being fined or getting infected with malware.

References :

https://www.cybereason.com/blog/the-hole-in-the-bucket-attackers-abuse-bitbucket-to-deliver-an-arsenal-of-malware

https://www.digitalcitizensalliance.org/clientuploads/directory/Reports/DCA_Fishing_in_the_Piracy_Stream_v6.pdf