14 DAY TRIAL // One of the updates released by Microsoft this month silently disables Safedisc DRM on Windows 7 and Windows 8 because of security concerns, as vulnerabilities that were found in the system could be exploited by cybercriminals and expose users’ computers.
Microsoft also implemented similar changes in the RTM version of Windows 10 in July when it rolled out the new OS, making some games that use Safedisc or Securerom impossible to play. And the consequence of having this new update installed on Windows 7 and 8 is pretty much the same: games that were using these DRM systems can no longer be played.
In the official description of KB3086255, Microsoft explains that the patch was absolutely needed, but points out that a way to manually enable Safedisc and Securerom back in case you want to play a game employing any of them is still possible.
“This security bulletin addresses a defense-in-depth update for the secdrv.sys driver, a third-party driver. The update turns off the service for the secdrv.sys driver. This may affect the ability to run some older games,” the company acknowledges.
“After you install this security update, some programs may not run. (For example, some video games may not run.) To work around this issue, you can temporarily turn on the service for the secdrv.sys driver by running certain commands, or by editing the registry.”
The workaround
You can find the way to enable Safedisc and Securerom in the box after the jump.
Despite the fact that it provides a workaround to get around this update, Microsoft says that it’s extremely risky to do it because this can expose your computer to attacks and viruses. So the company makes it clear that you make any changes at your own risk and you can’t blame the company in case your PC is attacked.
Safedisc was first implemented in the ‘90s as a way to prevent piracy, as it made it more difficult (but not impossible) to copy game discs. Several titles are still using such protection systems, such as Grand Theft Auto 3, but newer games, especially those that are available on digital platforms such as Steam, no longer employ them and can be played on patched systems and Windows 10 with no issue.