Standard Bank and Microsoft have teamed up to allow consumers to verify the legitimacy of their software.
The bank says it benefits through the promotion of online safety and the protection of its customers from potential security threats that come from using unlicensed software.
"If you are using software that isn't genuine, even if you are not aware of it, you are at much greater risk for malicious code such as worms, viruses or spyware," says Herman Singh, Standard Bank director of technology engineering.
"These users have no warranty protection, upgrade options or access to technical support that comes with using genuine software."
Users will be able to validate their software by going to the Standard Bank Web site and clicking on the security icon at the bottom of the page.
If unlawful software is detected, Microsoft will provide options and facilities for consumers to legalise their software.
"We are not approaching this with a court order or a baseball bat in our hands," says Louis Lehmann, Standard Bank director of IT security. "We are providing it as a convenience for customers to assess their authentication.
"They buy PCs that have already been configured, and they don't know if it's authentic. This service allows them to check and encourages them to license their software."
Singh says ensuring customers' PCs are operating optimally makes for more effective security controls, resulting in a safer environment for electronic banking.
Microsoft SA director Bradley Hopkinson says the initiative is part of Microsoft's commitment to protect customers from software counterfeiting.
"We're investing heavily in security because we want customers to be able to trust their computing experiences, so they can realise the full benefits of the interconnected world we live in," he adds.
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