Understanding DVD Copy Protection Software
Different DVD Copy Protection Systems Copy protection simply means the technology used to prevent people from copying copyrighted software, movies, music and other forms of media.
In the past people have been able to copy DVD’s and other media and sell them for a profit. This is against the law; however, in many cases this doesn’t matter. People continue to sell copyrighted DVD’s for profit.
Because of this, publishers of movies have begun to use encryptions to make it more difficult to copy. The CSS encryption is one of the more popular forms for the standard DVD Video. However, it took only three years for attackers to figure out this code.
More recently DVD manufacturers have turned to HD DVD and Blu-Ray Discs which use more complicated encryption schemes and Advanced Access Content System. Manufacturers are hoping that this will stop the copyrighting problem.
Audio Copy Downlaod Protection Systems In the late 20th century, a little company called Napster took the audio world by storm. This is because Napster allowed people to download free music off the internet. There was no need to purchase CD’s anymore; they were free online.
In 2000 the audio world responded with copy protection schemes. Some audio tracks only play track one but not track two. Some of the most common CD copy protection schemes are Cactus Data Shield, Copy Control and Data Position Measurement.
Free DVD and CD Download Programs and Copy Protection These days there are plenty of ways to download full length feature films off the internet. This is considered stealing, yes, but it is also free (or cheap) and convenient. Compared to other criminal offenses, DVD downloading for your own personal use doesn’t seem all that bad. After all, instead of paying the 15 dollars to see a movie in theatre, you are choosing to watch the movie in the comfort of your own bedroom for free. What’s wrong with that?
The problem is that movie production companies are losing out on money. So what right? Movie stars are already rich as are movie corporations. However, it’s still against the law, and, if you are caught, you could be charged or worse.
Why Copy Protection Software is Bad Stealing is wrong, yes; however, the downside to copy protection laws is that you cannot find products anymore that record audio or video without copy protection. For those who do not want to steal but want to record their children’s first step or their wedding, this is a huge problem. The “contents” on the tape are considered to be owned by the company, not by you and thus, even if you want to record a family outing, you cannot.
Because of this massive copy protection outbreak, we have been forced to step back in time where we cannot even record a favourite television show because it is copy protected.
Unfortunately, this is the price society will have to pay until a better system has been created.