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Tag Archive: copy protection software

Sony BMG Settles DRM Case with FTC

The debacle regarding copy-protection software tucked away on certain Sony BMG audio CDs has taken one more step into the history books. Sony BMG has agreed to a settlement with the FTC, and, in doing so, acknowledges that it violated federal law by not telling consumers its music CDs contained digital rights management software and tracked user listening to send them marketing messages.

The software also exposed consumers to security risks, as attackers became aware of how the copy protection technologies distributed by Sony operated and began crafting malware which could be cloaked by the Sony-installed software.

Sony BMG Settles with 39 States

Following immediately on its settlements with Texas and California, music label Sony BMG has agreed to pay some $4.25 million as part of settlement agreements with 39 U.S. states and the District of Columbia regarding copy protection software included on some of the labels music CDs which caused computers to malfunction and exposed users to security threats.

Sony Rootkit Fiasco Prompts Federal Warning

At the RSA Conference 2006 in San Jose, Department of Homeland Security official Jonathan Frenkel warned that if software distributors continue to distribute rootkit-like software designed to circumvent or defeat computer security measures, legislation or regulation may be necessary to rein in their practices.

Frankel was discussing the 2005 incident where XCP copy protection software embedded on selected Sony BMG music titles was found to compromise the security of Windows computers, and was later exploited by Windows malware. The software also installed itself without disclosing its presence and was difficult for users to remove without severely compromising Windows. The incident proved to be a public relations fiasco for Sony, whose repeated attempts to obscure, downplay, and minimize the issues only put more egg on their faces. Sony has since withdrawn the products and is working to settle private, state, and class action lawsuits.

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