Microsoft has instituted a series of draconian measures in an effort to halt the unauthorised use of its software in China.

Windows operating systems and Office applications that fail a mandatory online validation check will be subject to a black screen of shame every 60 minutes. In addition, the Redmond behemoth has implemented a system of distracting pop-up alerts to warn users about the dangers of software piracy.

"Microsoft's Windows and Office Genuine Advantage will help users detect copycat operating systems," explained Microsoft. "The move is just to warn users and not influence their normal operations."
 
The company also claimed that affected computers would return to normal after 45 days. However, a number of lawyers have gone on record as stating that Microsoft's initiative may cross a fine legal line. Consumers have also complained about the new initiative on a Chinese government website. 79% of 11,600 people surveyed said that Microsoft should simply lower its product prices, while 12% questioned the overall legality of forced black-screens and unsolicited pop-ups. X

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