The individuals who crack and redistribute software do not work for free. They often monetize their efforts by embedding malicious code into the installer. Security firms consistently find that preactivated utilities are loaded with:
When a user runs a preactivated installer, the software installs with a pre-applied license key or a cracked file. This tricks the program into thinking it has been legally purchased, allowing full access to all premium features without requiring a valid serial key from the user. The Hidden Risks of Preactivated WinRAR Installers
Some "cracked" versions include session token stealers that can hijack your active logins for social media or banking without needing your password.