Can a Pirated Copy of The Sims 3 Use Online Features or the Exchange?

No. A pirated/cracked copy of The Sims 3 cannot access any EA/Maxis online services.

Auth Required: The Launcher, Exchange, Store, and World Adventures travel require a valid, unique serial key registered to an EA Account.
Server-Side Validation: Every online request (uploading a Sim, downloading a lot, purchasing Store items) is verified against EA's entitlement database. Cracked executables bypass the local check but cannot forge a valid server token.
SecuROM / Origin DRM: The retail disc uses SecuROM; digital uses Origin. Both tie the license to an account.

Malware: Cracks/loaders from torrent sites frequently bundle trojans, miners, or spyware.
No Patches: Stuck on v1.0 or early patches—missing bug fixes, Store content compatibility, and 64-bit support (macOS Catalina+).
Account Bans: If you log into an EA account with a cracked game, the account can be flagged and banned.
Legal: Copyright infringement; civil/criminal penalties vary by country.

Buy on Steam / EA App / Origin: Often <$10 on sale (base game + all EPs/SPs in "Complete Collection" bundles).
Physical Disc + Serial: Register the code on EA App to get the digital license (works even if disc drive missing).

Support the developers—the Complete Collection includes 11 expansions and 9 stuff packs, thousands of items, and full Exchange/Store access.

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