GIGAZINE

The developer at the time revealed that the license key circulating in the pirated version of Windows XP was not hacked but leaked from within

When Windows XP was released in 2001, users were required to enter a license key to use it legitimately. One such key, 'FCKGW-RHQQ2-YXRKT-8TG6W-2B7Q8,' was circulated early in the release as a license ...
Gizmodo

Program Spits out Cracked Windows XP Keys, if You’re Real Keen to Return to 2001

Reddit users have shared a hack that can create working Windows XP activation codes, though you should think twice before booting up the two-decade old OS. Reading time 2 minutes Imagine it’s 2001.
Ars Technica

Green hills forever: Windows XP activation algorithm cracked after 21 years

It has never been too hard for someone with the right amount of time, desperation, or flexible scruples to get around Windows XP’s activation scheme. And yet XP activation, the actual encrypted ...