What's the solution?
If unaddressed, ITACS is suggesting this could create bigger problems from Microsoft, with Trading Standards suggesting the labels are unfit for purpose and the Computer Misuse Act 1990 stating it's illegal to impair the operation of any computer.
In fact European law seems to be close to declaring Internet access to be a fundamental human right so, given Microsoft's apparent desire to placate European legislators, you would think it would put a high priority on resolving this matter.
Microsoft was unable to provide us with an official statement on this matter in time for publication, but we did happen to be speaking to Phil Bowery, Microsoft product specialist at distributor VIP, on another matter and we mentioned this story.
Bowery confirmed that it's a relatively straightforward process for OEMs to request a replacement COA from Microsoft and that registered Microsoft partners have access to a COA replacement form online. He conceded, however, that these resources may not be very well publicised.
So it looks like there is a solution, but it's probably not the one ITACS is looking for. Surely it's not beyond the capabilities of today's technology to either make a sticker that neither fades nor falls off, but regardless, it would make everyone's life a bit easier if Microsoft provided some secure alternative way of getting hold of their product key.
