As I understand it, SecuROM won't run any software that it's supposed to be
protecting if there is anything else running which it's designers thought
*may* be used for hacking.  It also doesn't allow anything to run which
might allow you to see what it's doing (Process Explorer being the the most
often quoted example).  Maybe try rebooting your machine and closing any
services associated with Nero etc?  Failing that I suggest the tech support
site for The Sims.

SecuROM will provide an uninstall tool if you demand one loudly enough, but
this still won't remove the dodgy registry keys.  I haven't used it because
I still play the game occasionally (and can't be bothered to search for a
crack).

My Vista system got it's SecuROM infection from F.E.A.R.,  but other than
managing to piss me off enormously by it's presence, it doesn't seem to have
done any harm.  It's a bit of a pain to have to reboot if I've had Process
Explorer running though.

Don't misunderstand me, I'm not defending SecuROM - in fact I think anyone
who decides to use this kind of 'rootkit-like' software on a legitimate
buyer's PC should be smashed repeatedly in the face with a brick.

Sorry I can't be more help.

No it's not. It's just a more advanced form of Safedisc. I called my buddy
at EA who works in compliance and basically just echoed what you hear here
every day, Vista just has some issues, that you can smooth out, but there's
nothing bad about SecuRom. Game companies have started using it more because
the licensing fee is cheaper, the program has more security options, and for
the most part it's more compatible with more hardware.

Problem is not with you paying for a game, it's the other 3 guys who don't
pay for the game that EA is more worried about.

Also yelling (even in silent caps) usually won't get the problem resolved. I
find calm fustration to be the best course of action. EA has a support line
that's usually open mon/fri during normal business hours, you can usually
call and get free support for your game.

Securom doesn't install anything into your computer, it's all contained
within the game executables, all those registry keys are not going to
destroy your computer. I suspect whatever problems you are having is due to
some other application or a problem with Vista itself.

I'm sure this isn't helping or making you any happier, so I'll just
reitterate, contact EA support, they are nice people, and are there to help
you. Don't bother emailing, just call them. If you can't find the support
number at http://support.ea.com try the back of your game manual, they
usually put phone numbers to support there.

Good luck,
A.