[ShadowAce]

[pageonetoo]

Ain't it a bitch when someone fights against thieves?

[dangus]

Please explain the DRM code controversy?

[Izzy Dunne]

The good news is that OS X makes you authorize the installation of this crap, unlike Windows, where it happens without you knowing it (until later).
The dialog should warn you that something's weird (why do I have to give my password just to play music?).

The bad news is that Sony is a trusted name (for how long???) and that people might do it anyway...

[VeniVidiVici]

It is not believed that the two extensions incorporate the rootkit that is causing such controversy becuase of its effect on Windows machines. It's a Mac version of SunnComm's DRM software, MediaMax, which Sony BMG uses to copy-protect a range of CDs. ®

Oh, then it's ok. Why bother with the article?

[Tribune7]

According to long-running Mac user website MacInTouch, at least one CD distributed by the major label includes a Mac OS X application that purportedly installs a pair of extensions to the operating system's microkernel.

How can it do it without prompting for the password?

[The_Victor]

I thought Macs were virus proof?

[Turbopilot]

Can't be; I have it on good authority that no Mac anywhere can execute malicious code :-p

Seriously, though, it's good that Sony's being caught out on something this outrageous. I think the lawsuit against them for the WinXP rootkit will probably be successful, and hopefully in addition to damages they'll have to replace and recall any CDs that have this "DRM" garbage on them.

[saganite]

Sony BMG suspends copy-protection software
By Paul Taylor in New York
Published: November 11 2005 20:31 | Last updated: November 11 2005 20:31

Sony BMG, the joint venture record label, was on Friday forced into an embarrassing climbdown over its use of copy-protection technology on music CDs that exposed some PC users to hackers.


The company said it would “temporarily suspend” use of the controversial software and apologised to PC users for “possible inconvenience” it may have caused.

The turnaround came after several PC security firms identified a “Trojan“ e-mail virus designed to exploit software that some of Sony BMG's music CDs install on their owners' computers when played


http://news.ft.com/cms/s/018223e4-52f0-11da-8d05-0000779e2340.html

[js1138]

I have been saying for some time that many modern viruses and spywares trivk you into installing them. If you give permission, Macs are no more virus-proof than PSs.

And PCs won't install software without permission. It's just that most people run their PCs in administrator mode. The computer still requires permission.

[TheBattman]

Hmmm... buy crap, and are surprised when you get crap? The music industry marches on, trying their best to alienate the consumer.

And no, I have no problem with protecting content from illegitimate and illegal use. But this scheme goes beyond that. Installing a security breach on consumer's computers is NOT the way to fix their perceived problem.

I have a better idea (or two):

Sign quality musicians

Produce CD's people are willing to pay for

Explore more convenient methods of legal distribution - there are models out there that are much more consumer-friendly.

[GSWarrior]

Imogen Heap?

[Swordmaker]

Sony music CDs can install DRM software on Macs... if you give it permission PING!

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