However Serif's downloadable patches for X7 to v15.0.2.31, v15.0.3.35 and v15.0.4.38 (final), reported detection of these "unauthorised code"s but allowed the software to continue to operate. With WebPlus for example, the original X7 disc media was open to the use of third party codes. all versions of MoviePlus), to try to prevent users circulating the now effectively unlocked software, and to block its entry into the public domain. Serif also withdrew the installers for older versions of their programs that were not under active development, and thus were not patched against the third party codes (e.g. 2014 and later issued patches for older software also included detection and splash screen indication of suspected third party codes.
The patched versions detected and blocked the codes generated by the third party key software. Serif responded by patching some program installers and making these versions freely downloadable from their website. This software provided a way to make the new code (key) needed at the time of each program installation. This enabled unlicensed copies of all the Serif programs issued prior to that date to be installed by means of a third party code-generator software. License Code Hack Īround mid-2014, the algorithm used to generate the product keys across the entire Serif "Plus" software collection was broken. WebPlus was then only available as a paid-for version X8. This continued to be available from Serif's server until it was withdrawn around March 2016. For WebPlus the final free edition was based on version X5 and this was released in September 2012.
Previously Serif had made available feature limited Starter Editions of their software, based on older versions, which could be obtained and used free of charge.