Factorio requires exact version parity for multiplayer (e.g., 1.1.87 with 1.1.87). Verified releases bundle the correct version with a patched steam_api.dll or equivalent.
Cracked multiplayer modifies memory pointers for player count and inventory stacks. After 50+ hours of building a megabase, a desync can irrevocably corrupt the level.dat file. No automatic cloud backups (because no legit account).
The term "verified" creates a false sense of security. Here is the reality: