A section in the small print of Microsoft's Services Agreement reveals that the company can remotely disable pirated or counterfeit games on your computer without your permission.
As originally reported by Alphr, section 7b of the Agreement, the part that covers "updates to the services and software, and changes to these terms," says that Microsoft may: "automatically check your version of the software and download software updates or configuration changes, including those that prevent you from accessing the Services, playing counterfeit games, or using unauthorized hardware peripheral devices."
So if you're a Windows 10 user with any pirated games on your computer, you may find them suddenly disabled without your knowledge.
What Microsoft 10's new home screen looks like
The wording of the section is tricky - it's not clear whether other "counterfeit" software could be disabled too, or whether the section only applies to games.
The part about "unauthorised hardware" is hazy too - it doesn't say whether this refers to mods, or whether there is a list of peripheral devices that Microsoft sees as unauthorised that will be blocked.
The unusual term is raising eyebrows online, and has led people to ask how Microsoft can tell what is on your computer.
The top 10 most valuable brands
Will Microsoft be scanning your machine to check what software is installed? Windows 10 has already caused privacy concerns from some users, but the specifics are not addressed in the Agreement.
Even without Microsoft's intervention, games developers have been finding new and devious ways to toy with pirates for a long time.
Read more: Free Windows 10 upgrade for users
Everything you need to know about Windows 10
How to opt out of Microsoft's intrusive terms
For example, in pirated versions of Serious Sam 3, the joyful shooting gameplay is ruined by a giant, undefeatable pink scorpion, who hounds your character and kills him intermittently throughout the game.
The Independent has contacted Microsoft for comment on the details of their EULA, this article will be updated when they respond.
