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Thursday, September 28, 2006
Microsoft And DRM (Digital Rights Management) The possibility of some hacker stealing your personal data is a far more serious issue than anything to do with DRM. DRM to the average person is just a damn nuisance, it is a layer of unwanted and for the most part completely unnecessary software. If you are not familiar with DRM, it is software that stops you from making copies of music or video that you have legally purchased. The most famous case to date was last years fiasco with Sony/BMG who effectively placed spyware on any computer that was used to play certain CD's. A computer hacker who uses the nickname of 'Viodentia' released a program on the internet that allows users to remove the DRM features from media files played by the Windows Media Player. Microsoft issued a 'patch' within 24 hours. Viodentia playing the same 'patch' game had a new version of his software within another 24 hours. Microsoft has now taken a different approach to its DRM woes and rather than battle with Viodentia with technology, they are suing him! Even if they actually find Viodentia it is very unlikely that Microsoft could actually win this case. He has broken no laws, merely explored the technology and discovered a removal method. My guess is the law suit is a face saving move so that Microsoft can keep in the good graces of the movie and music industries. With the upcoming release of Microsoft's Ipod killer, Zune, this would seem to make good business sense. From a consumer perspective, should we care about any of this? The simple answer is yes. DRM is going to become a very big issue in the next few years. If I purchase some media, over the internet, or on CD, or in any form, I want the right to use that media in any type of player that I have. DRM is designed to prevent me from doing this. DRM will limit my use of the music or video. Simon Barrett http://zzsimonb.blogspot.com Blogger News Network is advertiser-supported, and your visits to our advertisers help BNN to meet its expenses. Help keep us afloat! posted by zzsimonb at 9:39 PM |
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