1. Go to the computer store and inconspicuously open a software or game box and copy down the serial number.

2. Write a heart touching letter (not email, but snail mail) to the software company explaining how you bought the software only to find out there was no serial number…Although this method is unlikely to work, you may also want to include a forged receipt.

3. Finally, I have seen a few companies which publish a default serial number on their websites in case the customer has lost her original number, so it’s always a good idea to browse through the software maker’s website.