[PCWorld]

Post your comments for Can Someone Steal My Windows Product ID? here

[TechieXP]

Actually it depends. When you purchase An OEM system, the OEM has already activated the number on the COA stsick on your system. However, if you order recovery disks, the ID number that is slipstreamed into the installation media isn't the same as the one on your system. And since the media is also preactivated if they used your installation media on another system, fact is no one will know. on branded system there is never a need to activate the number bec it has been done. So if they use it, it will provide no benefit. If they try to use it on a different brand, they will have to contact MS, bec the number has already been used. If there system is from the same brand as yours, they could use it over an over and no one will know.

[brandonballard1]

yep sure can

[bilalakhtar]

there are some ways, i think, and its easier in vista.