HiTechGate.com is selling software very cheaply. In fact, it's too cheap.
HiTechGate says it sells OEM (original equipment manufacturer) version software. These versions are included on new computers. They are much cheaper than the retail copies.
OEM stores abound on the Web. They presumably get their software through computer manufacturers. The software industry grumbles about these sellers, but registers their software.
Typically, the software is sold with a piece of hardware, such as a cable. That apparently makes it legal. The programs are complete, but manuals and support are not included.
HiTechGate carries an array of expensive programs. For instance, it offers Adobe's Acrobat 9 Pro Extended for $27. I found that program online at OEM stores for about $170. Adobe's retail price is $699! So, HiTechGate's price is quite a bargain.
HiTechGate notes on its site that the software cannot be registered. That may be an indication that it's not legal. You may have a disc burned from a legitimate copy. Long ago, software publishers found ways to block counterfeit copies.
I think this is a case of too good to be true. Anyone with common sense should smell something fishy. Basically, you tried to get something for nothing. Instead, you got nothing for a little something. Count yourself lucky that it was no worse.
You can save money buying from OEM stores. But you won't get HiTechGate's prices. I'd just chalk it up to life's lessons.
However, you can complain, if you want. I'd start with the Better Business Bureau . You could also complain to the Attorney General's Office in Georgia.
The software industry maintains an agency that pursues software counterfeiting. That is the Business Software Alliance . I would drop it a line.
Not all great deals are bummers. I list hundreds of free programs on my site. Check them out in my Downloads section.
Adobe's Acrobat, mentioned previously, is used to produce PDF files. These are great for exchanging documents over the Internet. But you don't have to pay Acrobat's high price. Try these free PDF programs: