Greetings - I have a second owner, home created desktop came loaded with Vista. Yesterday I got a message to validate my OS because someone tried to perform an illegal operation. Or it may be counterfeit. However, I can't even get to the start feature to check according to their online instructions. It locks me out of everything. It isn't out of the question that the OS is bad because I didn't install it but I've read online that they usually give you a grace period and a reduced operating function to fix the situation. I got nothing except blocked out so I'm wondering if this is some malware problem instead. Thankful I have a laptop to fill in the gaps with two non-working desktops! Anyone have a suggestion? Thanks

If you didn't receive a Vista dvd and key on a home made system then you have an illegal copy. Your only option is to purchase a licensed Vista disk and format the drive and clean install. The one good thing is that purchasing a qualifiing Vista product now, should give you an upgrade to Windows 7 at a reduced price. Make sure you buy from a reputable dealership and get full details and conditions of the Windows 7 upgrade.

Thanks - not exactly what I was hoping to hear but thanks.

Did you buy it from a store or another person? I would be making them to pay for a new copy of vista, since technically they were selling pirated software which is illegal.

I'm not sure I can still contact him. He is just a computer whiz who built a pretty nice gaming PC. Like others I have read about, I had no idea for over a year now and then suddenly - the message. Lesson learned - ask for all documentation. It never occurred to me I would need the product key. I looked on line and found Euro Software who offers Vista Ultimate for $80 and did some research on them online. A company to avoid - OEM stuff which they claim they have registered. Crooks all around us! Thanks