: Blow stated he could identify pirated versions on livestreams, though he never publicly revealed the specific visual or technical tell. The "Paper" in The Witness
The game does not use Denuvo or any major anti-tamper technology. As a result, it has been available in a fully playable state (cracked/DRM-free) since its launch in January 2016. Crack Status Overview The Witness Crack Status
In the context of the game, "the paper" usually refers to one of several environmental clues or physical-style puzzles found throughout the island: The Witness Easter Egg - Secret Developer Ending : Blow stated he could identify pirated versions