"The message appears when Windows decides it is unlicensed. This might be caused by skipping the product key during installation, or by a hardware change triggering the operating system into a deactivated state."
"In the days of Windows XP and Vista, Microsoft took a much sterner line, and if you didn't activate within 30 days, the operating system died."
"With Windows 10 and 11, the software maker took a more lenient stance. Some personalization options are removed, which isn't really an issue for a point-of-sale system."
"The watermark of shame is likely an indicator that someone has fitted a new component to the PC running the show."
A self-service kiosk at Sainsbury's was found displaying an 'Activate Windows' watermark, suggesting the operating system may be unlicensed. This can occur if the product key is skipped during installation or if hardware changes trigger deactivation. While the watermark indicates a problem, immediate consequences are minimal with Windows 10 and 11, as Microsoft has adopted a more lenient approach compared to earlier versions. The watermark likely signals a hardware change affecting the kiosk's operating system.
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