Code hackers have broken Windows activation for copies of Vista that came with major system builders' PCs, Microsoft's senior product manager Alex Kochis wrote today on a company blog. Two new techniques have surfaced which successfully convince original equipment manufacturer (OEM) copies of Vista that they run on their intended PCs, letting pirates run bootleg versions without ever having to activate their copies online or by phone.

The processes involve alternately a hardware solution, which rewrites code in the BIOS to imitate another computer, as well as a software trick that achieves the same effect. Despite the risk, however, Kochis said that defeating the code break was a low priority at Microsoft, noting that the hardware bypass was too risky to be widespread and that the software was easily caught.

"We focus on hacks that pose threats to our customers, partners and products," he said. "Our goal isn't to stop every 'mad scientist' that's on a mission to hack Windows. Our first goal is to disrupt the business model of organized counterfeiters and protect users from becoming unknowing victims."

No mention was made of whether or not the compromise would affect Windows Genuine Advantage, which is needed for approving major software updates after the initial activation step.