Adobe had a backup method for professionals who worked on machines without internet access. You could call an automated phone line, give them a "Installation Number" displayed on your screen, and they would read back an "Authorization Code" to unlock the software.

These executables are notorious for being "Trojan horses." Once run, they can install keyloggers that steal your bank passwords or ransomware that locks your entire hard drive [1, 2]. Backdoors:

If you're experiencing issues with activating Photoshop CS2 or are looking for alternatives, here are some suggestions: