Websites hosting cracked software or free keys often bundle the desired content with malware.

Scammers generate fake registration screenshots using text editors or old, invalid keys that Avast’s servers reject. The “valid until 2038” message may appear for a few days — until Avast performs an online check, at which point the protection is disabled, leaving you exposed.

A: These are almost always stolen corporate keys (which work briefly until blocked), or completely fake. You’re wasting money and risking your data.