finally got access to CGPeers and snatched a copy of NukeX, I'm still worried that Foundry will still somehow snatch my hardware ID and send me a threatening email. I've already wiped Nuke and all related files from my hardware and nuked my foundry account, anything else I could do in order to shield myself a bit more before I install the crack?
Are you using nukex for business purposes?
If so: You are a REAL dumbass if you are using a pirated copy for that. Because even if we assume that no contract or business partner wants to audit your software, you are one watermark away from being a massive liability for whatever project you were working on. Because if a company/production "gets caught" with the sign of pirated software? They aren't going to be on the hook. They are going to help organize the lawsuit against you because they have a contract that you didn't read that said all your software was legit.
Pirate software for fun and education. Do not pirate it for business. Because you are "fine" up until you work with a company that is big enough to have to care. At which point you are radioactive because you are a massive liability to them and any other company that is big enough to have to care.
Then as long as you aren't trying to sell anything: It doesn't really matter. If they are really that obsessed as to send a C&D to you then you just say "oh shit, sorry. I thought I had the demo version", uninstall it, and move on.
If you are really terrified you can block domains and the like. But "students are going to pirate this" is pretty normal and expected.
you should have used VPN to download mate, or maybe even a proxy like v2ray. the thing is they notice your ip address when you are torrenting (cuz when you engage in Torrent you reveal your IP address publicly, to everyone downloading the thing) and send a lawsuit to your ISP with your IP address written, you ISP gladly reveals the IP is yours and sends the lawsuit to you so that you can prepare for the case. So if nothing comes from this I would say they didn't notice you.
