For years, millions of users have quietly relied on unofficial tools to activate Windows and Microsoft Office without paying for a license. And for the most part, those systems worked without issue — updates installed normally, features were unlocked, and everything looked genuine.
But that streak may have just ended.
In mid-November 2025, many users suddenly found that their Windows installations were no longer activated. Their PCs displayed warnings, removed personalization options, and demanded immediate license activation. The common thread among these cases? They were using an unofficial method known as KMS38 activation.
Here’s what’s happening — and what you can expect next.
Microsoft Just Shut Down a Major Activation Loophole
The activation method at the center of this issue, KMS38, has been widely used in the piracy community. Distributed by the group Massgrave (Microsoft Activation Scripts), the tool was available openly on GitHub and became extremely popular because:
- It could activate Windows until the year 2038
- It worked offline
- It allowed full system updates
- It didn’t install suspicious software or malware
- It made Windows appear nearly identical to a genuine installation
In short: it was the “cleanest” and safest unofficial method available.
However, according to new reports, Microsoft has recently closed the loophole that made KMS38 possible. After the November 2025 Patch Tuesday update, many systems activated with KMS38 began failing validation checks — instantly deactivating Windows.
Why Is This Happening Now?
Microsoft has traditionally taken a surprisingly relaxed approach to Windows piracy. Their reasoning was simple: more users on Windows means greater adoption of Microsoft services like Edge, OneDrive, and Office 365.
But the recent crackdown suggests a change in strategy.
The company appears to be:
- Tightening activation servers
- Closing loopholes used by activators
- Enhancing license validation checks
- Blocking unauthorised KMS activations
- Encouraging users to switch to legitimate licenses
This doesn’t mean Microsoft will begin mass penalties or legal actions — but they are clearly making pirated copies harder to maintain.
What Users Are Experiencing Right Now
If your Windows was activated using KMS38 or similar tools, you may see:
- “Windows is not activated” messages
- A persistent watermark on the desktop
- Disabled personalization features
- Reduced access to certain apps
- Failed or blocked updates
- Pop-ups urging you to buy a genuine license
Some users also reported Windows freezing certain settings until activation is restored.
Why Pirated Windows Has Always Been Risky
While KMS38 was cleaner than most cracks, using a pirated OS still comes with serious downsides:
1. Security Risks
No guarantee of safe updates or reliable patches.
2. Stability Problems
Activation cracks can modify system files, causing issues later.
3. Malware Exposure
Many "activators" online are dangerous and bundled with trojans or spyware.
4. No Official Support
Microsoft offers no help for unlicensed systems.
5. Legal and Compliance Problems
Especially for businesses — audits can lead to fines or operational restrictions.
How to Fix It — The Right Way
If your Windows just deactivated, you have three safe options:
1. Purchase a Genuine License
This permanently solves the issue and ensures full support, stability, and updates.
Licenses are available from Microsoft or trusted resellers.
2. Use a Microsoft Account With a Digital License
If you previously owned a legitimate license tied to your Microsoft account, logging in may automatically reactivate your device.
3. Reinstall Windows Without Piracy Tools
A clean installation removes modified system files and malware from old activators.
A Useful Tip:
Windows 10 and 11 can run legally without activation.
You’ll see a watermark, and customization options are limited — but:
- It’s 100% legal
- You get full security updates
- The system remains stable
- You avoid cracks and malware
For many users, this is much safer than relying on pirated activators.
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