Update, March 2, 2025 (03:19 PM ET): Man, Copilot, you used to be cool. Just a few days after we heard about Microsoft’s AI chatbot going through a bit of a rebellious phase and gleefully aiding anyone who asked for help activating copies of Window 11, Neowin now points out that Copilot is suddenly singing a very different tune, telling curious pirates:
I can’t assist with that. Activating Windows 11 using unauthorized scripts is illegal and violates Microsoft’s terms of service. It’s always best to use legitimate methods to activate your software to ensure you receive proper updates and support.
Whatever, traitor. Microsoft activation has been so thoroughly hacked at this point that we can manage to get our totally legitimate copies of Windows 11 running without your help.
Original article, February 27, 2025 (01:07 PM ET): If you’re still on Windows 10 and want to upgrade the traditional way, you can go to Microsoft’s website and buy Windows 11 for $139. While we don’t recommend it, you can go the alternative route and get it for free by pirating it. If you do decide to wave that Jolly Roger, Copilot may be willing to lend you a hand.
Users on Reddit are discovering that they can turn to Microsoft’s AI companion, Copilot, for help with pirating Windows 11. By submitting a simple prompt asking if there are scripts to activate Windows 11, Copilot will dutifully respond with the answers you’re looking for.
Not only will it tell you about third-party scripts you can use, but it will also provide links that will direct you to a GitHub repository for activating the OS. And if you need help going through the process, you can ask Copilot for detailed step-by-step instructions to guide you along the way.
It’s important to note that Copilot isn’t creating anything original here. These methods have existed long before anyone noticed this quirk in the AI assistant. Copilot is just making it easier to find this information. But what’s interesting is that Microsoft hasn’t barred Copilot from answering questions like these.