| Risk Category | Specific Threat | |---------------|----------------| | | Trojanized setup files (Cobalt Strike, ransomware droppers) | | Tampered binaries | Modified setup.exe or sql_engine_core_inst.msi | | Missing service packs | Unpatched RTM versions vulnerable to RCE (CVE-2012-2122, CVE-2014-4260) | | Legal liability | Unauthorized distribution violates Microsoft EULA | | Activation failure | Stolen or blocked product keys embedded in ISO |
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If you cannot find a legitimate copy, consider these options: