When I first used 4k Download (Ver 3.8.3.1870)there was no activation required. When I just redid a harddrive, activation was called for. Is this accurate or did I somehow get involved with a scam site?

When I first used 4k Download (Ver 3.8.3.1870)there was no activation required. When I just redid a harddrive, activation was called for. Is this accurate or did I somehow get involved with a scam site? Its not that your product is not worth the cost quoted, it just threw me for a loop when I saw that change. I look forward to your reply.