Security threats Toolkit

Story: Microsoft to delete Sony DRM 'rootkit'

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The sony root kit problem should be a wake up call to all who own computers to become aware and involved with DRM, and the issues of who controls your computer. While I believe that content providers need to be compensated, where to draw the line on control of content needs an open political discussion and laws and rules need to be in place before DRM goes further. It should be we the people, and not entrenched interests, like Sony who decide what is fair play in DRM. There should be criminal penalties for failing to disclose completely what additions or modifications a DRM system does to your computer, and if you decline it your should have an absolute right to a complete refund. There also should be a requirement that any DRM scheme be removable in a simple and transparent manner. If the DRM system contacts the content provider as part of the system in any fashion also needs to be disclosed. This contract should be available before you open the package. There may be a problem with DRM in Microsoft's rumored plans for implementing DRM. If you do not have a current license for say Office, you can not read your own files because they will be encrypted as a security feature. While this is not confirmed news, it could be very bad for consumers.

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