In the epic battle between developers, publishers and the folks who pirate their products, a massive win was scored for the good guys this week.  In China of all places.  The Chinese Ministry of Public Security, in partnership with the US FBI this week executed Operation Summer Solstice, a massive anti-piracy bust that's been months in the making.  The result was 25 arrests, and seizure of more than $500 million in pirated software.

The real kicker though?  It's all in part thanks to Windows Genuine Advantage, the Windows component most hated by tech geeks everywhere.  Users purchased software from illegal sources, not knowing it was illegal.  When their copies checked in with WGA, Microsoft and thus the authorities knew where to look.  From there they tracked down the original point of sale.

For more details, hit up WindowsITPro.