While trying to install a couple of Vista updates, Microsoft made me me jump through the normal “Have you got a proper paid for copy of Vista there, sonny?” checks - except this time, for some reason, it failed:

As it is a valid copy of Windows, I thought it just needed a reboot to sort it out (it is actually amazing the number of problems that can indeed be solved by turning it off and back on again…). On getting back into Windows I was welcomed by various friendly reminders that I might be running hookey software:

Even the system info box has changed from a pretty Genuine Windows logo to a link reading: Get a proper copy of Vista, you thieving scum Get genuine…

After an hour or so of arguing with Microsoft’s webpages, it’s still not giving in. My only option is to use the hidden link to submit a support request, pleading with them to recognise it as genuine. EXCEPT THAT PAGE DOESN’T WORK. Brilliant.

How much is a MacBook these days?