Pirated software is one of the most reliable malware delivery mechanisms available to attackers. The economics are perfect: users seeking a free download are already motivated to bypass warnings, turn off antivirus to 'let the crack work,' and run executables from unverified sources. Attackers package their payload directly into the thing you're trying to download.
It's not just pirated software. Free 'converter' sites, driver download sites, and sites offering cracked versions of games are all common malware distribution points. Some hijack browsers immediately. Some install keyloggers silently. Some sit dormant for months before activating.
Free alternatives exist for almost everything: GIMP and Affinity Photo for Photoshop. LibreOffice for Microsoft Office. DaVinci Resolve (free version) for Premiere. Handbrake for video conversion. VLC for media playback. These are legitimate, open source, and don't require disabling your antivirus.
For software you actually need to pay for: check whether your employer, school, or local library provides access. Microsoft 365 is free for students and many employees. Adobe CC is heavily discounted for students. The legitimate version is almost always more accessible than people assume.
If you've already run a suspicious file: disconnect from the internet, run a full scan with Windows Defender or Malwarebytes, and change passwords for your most important accounts from a different device while the scan runs.