"Microsoft's increasing concern over information security has translated into its decision to bite the bullet and make its upcoming SP2 (Service Pack 2) security patch available to all users - including those using pirated copies of its Windows XP software"

Computer Times interviewed Barry Goffe of Microsoft, who explained that: "It was a tough choice, but we finally decided that even if someone has pirated copy of Windows, it is more important to keep him safe than it is to be concerned about the revenue issue," before also adding "Having these unsecured users means bigger worm and virus outbreaks - which also impacts the Internet and consequently, our legitimate users as well."

Other pertinent information includes: an estimated 80 - 250 MB download size for SP2, that it upgrades WinXP's built-in Internet Connection Firewall with a superior version now called Windows Firewall, and that automatic updating - particularly of security features - will "pester" "sloppy users". Also that an "anti-pop-up ad feature...is integrated with...Internet Explorer".

The Computer Times article ends with quotes from Mr. Goffe to the effect that Microsoft isn't going soft and that they are developing new methods to combat piracy although he did refer to the policy of letting everyone access SP2 as "one exception".

http://www.zeropaid.com/news/articles/auto/05112004a.php