A registration key generator is a small, illicit software program designed to circumvent the copyright protection of commercial software. In the context of ScanMaster ELM, a user downloads the keygen, runs it, and is provided with a "valid" serial number to unlock the software.

Keygens are a primary vector for malware distribution. Hackers know that users searching for cracks are willing to bypass security warnings and disable antivirus software to make the keygen work.

: Scanmaster ELM is a commercial software product used for vehicle diagnostics (OBD2 scanning). Generating registration keys without purchasing a license is a form of software piracy, which violates copyright laws in most countries.