Sony = the Big Bad

[timepiececlock]

I realized that I had, previously, installed this "root kit" software when I used my new Foo Fighters CD in my computer. Since then my computer crashed because of a virus (as far as I know, unrelated) and had to be wiped clean, so I don't have the stuff there any more. On the other hand, this means I can't put my discs in for fear of getting this shit on my computer.


Here's a list of links I've gotten via LJ over the last week or more on all that stuff you've been hearing about Sony and music CDs and malicious root kit software:

USA TODAY on the story:
http://www.usatoday.com/tech/news/computersecurity/2005-11-02-sony-patch_x.htm

A step-by-step look at what the rootkit software does and how to find it on your computer, with helpful pictures:
http://www.sysinternals.com/blog/2005/10/sony-rootkits-and-digital-rights.html

Same site discussing the quality of the so-called patches Sony made:
http://www.sysinternals.com/blog/2005/11/more-on-sony-dangerous-decloaking.html


Sony's website, where you can find a list of their music labels: http://www.sonybmg.com/

How hackers can use the software Sony puts on your computer:
http://www.theregister.co.uk/2005/11/10/sony_drm_trojan/


And now Sony's being hit by a class action law suit in California and soon to be New York as well:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/4424254.stm - from BBC news
http://yro.slashdot.org/article.pl?sid=05/11/10/0024259 - lists the California laws Sony allegedly violated

If the class action law suit passes, I'm returning my fucking CD. I'd have returned it anyway except that I got it at a discount no-return price. Meanwhile, I've warned my family and friends about it. Only my gamer friend seemed to care, but my dad was very interested too.

I actually forked over money for the Foo Fighters double CD. And this is what they give me in appreciation for not stealing? Put software on there that holds my computer hostage in order for me to hear the music?

Shit like this makes me want to steal music, not buy it.

Comments

[zebeckras.livejournal.com]

I can't say for sure, but I have heard that if you put the discs in but dont' play them, you'll be fine. As in, you can rip songs off the discs into MP3s and it won't activate the root kit. Like I said, I can't even prove that myself b/c I have a Mac and their buggery doesn't work on Macs. But BOY do I hope they get taken to court. And I hope they're NOT ready to go.

[hakeber.livejournal.com]

It's autorun that messes folk up. Some folk in my lj gave links and such on how to disable autorun. They state that if you right click and select open or open with, you should be fine. Just don't double-click.

[rashaka.livejournal.com]

I've been seeing references to turning off the autorun, but I wasn't sure I was reading it correctly in understanding that it meant it'd be safe.

[hakeber.livejournal.com]

Here's another really good one: http://www.eff.org/deeplinks/archives/004145.php

And you just have to go read all of it. And then they wonder why pirating exist. Sheesh.

[hakeber.livejournal.com]

Oh! And you should also go back and read the rest of the comments here. Looks like they're thinking of being incredibly stupid with the PS3 stuff, as well.