How to Resolve Internet Download Manager’s “Registered with a Fake Serial Number” Issue
Internet Download Manager (IDM) is a popular download manager that allows users to download files from the internet quickly and efficiently. However, sometimes users may encounter an error message stating that “Internet Download Manager has been registered with a fake serial number.” This can be a frustrating experience, but it can be resolved by following a few simple steps.
In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to resolve the “Registered with a fake serial number” error in IDM. We will discuss the causes of this error, provide step-by-step instructions to fix it, and offer tips to prevent it from happening again.
Understanding the Error Message
The “Registered with a fake serial number” error message occurs when IDM detects that the serial number used to register the software is invalid or has been revoked. This can happen for several reasons, including:
- Using a cracked or pirated version of IDM
- Entering an incorrect serial number during the registration process
- IDM’s servers detecting suspicious activity associated with the serial number
When this error occurs, IDM will display a message box stating that the software has been registered with a fake serial number and will provide a link to purchase a genuine serial number. However, it is important to note that purchasing a new serial number may not always resolve the issue.
Resolving the Error
To resolve the “Registered with a fake serial number” error, follow these steps:
- Uninstall IDM: Go to the Control Panel, select “Programs and Features,” and uninstall Internet Download Manager.
- Delete IDM Registry Keys: Open the Registry Editor (regedit) and navigate to the following keys:
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Internet Download Manager
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Internet Download Manager
Delete all the keys and values found under these directories.
- Reinstall IDM: Download a fresh copy of IDM from the official website and install it.
- Enter a Genuine Serial Number: If you have a genuine serial number, enter it during the registration process.
- Contact IDM Support: If you do not have a genuine serial number or continue to encounter the error, contact IDM support for assistance.
Tips to Prevent the Error
To prevent the “Registered with a fake serial number” error from happening again, follow these tips:
- Always download IDM from the official website.
- Do not use cracked or pirated versions of IDM.
- Be careful when entering the serial number during the registration process.
- Use a reliable antivirus program to prevent malware from infecting your computer.
- Keep your IDM software up to date with the latest version.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a free serial number generator to fix this error?
A: No, using a free serial number generator is not a reliable or ethical way to fix this error. It is likely that the serial numbers generated by these tools are invalid or have already been used.
Q: What happens if I continue to use IDM with a fake serial number?
A: Continuing to use IDM with a fake serial number may result in limited functionality, such as download speed restrictions or the inability to access certain features. Additionally, IDM may eventually block your access to the software altogether.
Conclusion
The “Registered with a fake serial number” error in IDM can be a frustrating experience, but it can be resolved by following the steps outlined in this article. By uninstalling and reinstalling IDM, deleting the registry keys, and entering a genuine serial number, you can get your download manager back up and running in no time. To prevent this error from happening again, always download IDM from the official website, use a genuine serial number, and keep your software up to date.
If you have any further questions or need assistance resolving this error, please feel free to reach out to IDM support for additional guidance.
