@RHM
I would not consider pirated Windows to be a trusted OS, even with security updates from Microsoft and a good free anti-virus product...Using a "fixed" copy of Windows is inherently risky, that's a given. However updating to the latest service pack and browser is always smart, along with timely security patching. Toss in basic, safe computing practices and a modicum of knowledge, and one can be relatively secure on XP even this late into the game. Things in that regard changed dramatically with the release of SP2.
Truth is, XP can be used as a daily and even in admin running network shares (caveat: standard account would be better). One of my units runs as such and has for years, and believe it or not, without A-V. It's wired to the net 24/7 pulling data thru broadband pipes behind a solid router and firewall, while everything stated above is firmly in place. I'm typing on it as we speak.
Where the great 90%ers - novices and freeloaders - screw up is with the last part of the security equation more than any other -- practicing safe computing. That stems from ignorance and a lack of discipline, in roughly equal parts. The same tripwire that plagues us all in life to one extent or another, sooner or later.
But in the realm of computing and interfacing, it's a make or break proposition. It mostly boils down to PEBCAK, now as in the past. In regards to Linux, trust me if one can't keep a relatively straight-forward WinOS machine maintained and patched, they're that much further removed from getting on top of the Linux curve. It's a shame too.
PS. Though using pirate and scene "fixed" software always entails a certain degree of risk, far greater numbers are compromised from PEBCAK, truth be known. Slipshod computing practices are the dearth of progress on the security front. What is saddest is it doesn't really take much to get there, and from both sides of the equation (compromise -VS- protection).
*Hopelessly =|= ignorant* 
indeed 
