Microsoft turns Live Searchers into gamblers
More online bribery
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Believe it or not, Microsoft has added a Vegas-style slot program to its Dutch search engine to lure users away from Google. If useful search results don't work, then money or prices probably will.
When you search with Google, through Luckysearch.nl or MSN.nl, the reels will spin. You can win LCD screens or laptops or get a voucher. If you accept Microsoft as the default engine, your chances of winning will rise. El Reg gambled all morning, but with no luck so far.
The LuckySearch program runs through November 1. Microsoft is warning users not to hack its virtual slots. Those who try will be "prosecuted."
Microsoft hasn't introduced its slot program in other countries yet. In the US, the company rewarded consumers with a cash back rebate for purchases via its search engine.
Yesterday, it launched another US incentive program for Live Search, called SearchPerks. Every time you search, you earn tickets. You can earn up to 25 tickets a day. Tickets can later be redeemed for all sorts of rewards including music downloads (5 for 525 points) and airline miles (1000 miles for 1800 tickets). ®
COMMENTS
MS and bribes
Funny this should come up. I was at VMWorld '08 and ask anyone there... MS was handing out 1USD chips to try to encourage us to use their virtualization product.
I never played the chip, and still have it. It was so amusing at the time to say "see? MS tried to bribe me." Now it's not as funny, it's just sad...
Thanks guys, you ruined my fun :(
LIVE Worldwide?
Is this even open to the UK? Most of these Microsoft LIVE pushing things seem to be pretty limited. The games where you win points and claim prizes was limited to the US. The LIVE search/ebay discount is limited again to the US only.
I'll just use Google thanks ;)
Just like its software then
Every things a gamble with Microsoft & you can never win...
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