Just got a reply from SecuROM support about the issue and they said:
"Hello,
Please rename your original <SIMS2EP7.exe> (located in the folder C:/Program Files/EA GAMES/The Sims 2 FreeTime/TSBin) to <SIMS2EP7.old>. Then, click on the link below or copy and paste it into your web browser. This will open a blank webpage and a File Download window. From the File Download window click Open, extract the new <SIMS2EP7.exe> into the original's folder and re-start the application.
The link for the new file is:
http://www.securom.com/support/custo...0/Sims2EP7.zip
If the problem persists, please send another analysis file of the latest executable to us.
Best regards,
SecuROM Support Team
SecuROM on the web:
SecuROM
or via e-mail:
support@securom.com
NOTE: Please include the entire subject line, exactly as written including your ticket number, in the subject line of your communications to ensure proper handling."
hopes this helps guys!
just about to try it myself now.
EDIT: This solution works! I can play The Sims 2 now!!



yaaaay!