I have built a new machine and want to install BearShare Pro which I bought some time ago. I have downloaded latest version and gone through registration process for new key but keep being told my details are not in database. I have e-mailed support but all I get are answers from Bots - just telling me to do exactly what I have done already. No-one is obviously reading the e-mails.
Any ideas - even an e-mail address which may get actually read by a real person!!

I read a similar problem some days ago. Check the Sticky at the top of the forums here https://www.gnutellaforums.com/bearshare-open-discussion/

I've read through the sticky and still can't really understand what's going on. My problem is similar to mouser99's - I bought a new hard drive and installed windows on it. Moved all my data onto it. I tried to get a new activation key, several times, but have never received a new one. I paid $20 for Bearshare Pro, which is good for a year, and haven't gotten a new key yet.

In "layman terms" can someone explain to me what's going on?

Those keys were good for six months and the original company was bought out last summer.
The new owner wants you to switch to something completely different and revenue-generating.

The best version of the original BearShare that ever existed requires no money and can be found here:
Sticky: BearShare has been sabotaged.

Thank you very much for your help. Now I understand what's going on. Thanks again.