Malwarebytes pardons Pirates and gives away free one year premium license keys. Malwarebytes Corporation is after the counterfeit keys, they’re running ‘Amnesty key’ program with which, if Malwarebytes Program detects abused, pirated or counterfeit keys during the upgrade to version 2.1.8, then the user will be presented with a special screen (Locate your license key) with two options (check the screenshot below).
Malwarebytes offers free keys to the Pirates
Selecting the first — ‘I’m not sure where I got key from, or I downloaded it from the Internet’ — or second option –‘I purchased my key’– will issue users a new and unique key of Malwarebytes anti-Malware premium, which user can use for one year or 12 months for free.
READ: How to remove PUPs or Unwanted Programs using Malwarebytes Anti-Malware
If you don’t activate the key or click the ‘Cancel’ button, then you’ll remain on the free version.
Next go to ‘My Account’ screen, note down the new key, your old key will be disabled after a period of time. This way, Malwarebytes disables all the pirated keys and, those who got Premium keys will enjoy one year protection and can renew if they desire when they about to expire.
What is Malwarebytes Amnesty Program?
The program page says “The Internet is full of pioneers and cowboys. It’s also got its fair share of pirates and trolls. Some of those bad guys may have duped you into purchasing a counterfeit version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware. Or perhaps we’ve simply detected a problem with your key. Not to worry. We’re here to help.”
“Malwarebytes is offering a free replacement key for Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Premium customers who have been inconvenienced by piracy or abuse. This new key will be exclusive to you going forward.”
NOTE: If you’ve activated MBAM by entering your ID and license key normally like me (I’ve purchased Pro version lifetime license three years back through Cleverbridge and is working fine), then you don’t need to worry, your license key will continue to work, for confirmation, check the ‘My Account’ screen. Locating your license key window only appears for invalid keys.
Amnesty program won’t last for long, it could run for few weeks. Malwarebytes CEO, Marcin has given explanation about new licensing system here.