Hey Melanie, 1. So I assume you don't go shopping in any stores that have cameras or a security system like devices attached to clothing, etc? These companies are automatically assuming that you can't be trusted. 2. You have a computer where Win98 was preinstalled so you didn't have to enter the LONG NUMBER? Gee, what happens when your computer DIES or if the harddrive fries? me thinks you'll have to upgrade then. :) And... in a few years, newer programs won't have Win98 as the OS that will run their programs. 3. Poor customer service? Why? Because they implemented this copy protection? If that's what you mean, see item #1 above. 4. So... you haven't patched your METACREATIONS POSER with any of the CL patches? If you did, it's a CURIOUS LABS POSER now! :) 5. Why don't you just say you're not gonna buy it now because you have real-life problems LIKE bills? Move into the real world Melanie and see what's going on around you. You deal with anti-theft protection all of the time. How dare those car makers make us use keys to get into our cars! Have you EVER misplaced your car keys? What an annoyance THAT can be. "Ridiculous code nonsense"? Do YOU lock your car? Bet you do. What's the problem here? Don't trust people? My point here Melanie is that you and everyone else needs to get a grip. This is the REAL WORLD and we deal with this stuff every day. It's just that most people don't SEE it. Try getting some perspective and you'll see. The Poser5 copy protection is NO different than anything else.