Microsoft has sued DRM hacker for stealing source code 'FairUse4WM', used to break DRM copy protection from copyrighted music using Microsoft's DRM technology.
Microsoft is taking legal action against the hacker who developed the software called 'FairUse4WM', a tool used to break DRM copy protection from copyrighted music using Microsoft's DRM technology. Microsoft claims that the hacker illegally accessed the source code used for the technology that allowed the hacker to make an effective tool.
Microsoft is attempting to make a successful patch to disable the tool, which was successful in breaking down copy protection from the songs that were downloaded from subscription services like Napster & Yahoo. Despite the two patches released by Microsoft to counter the hack, the hacker has been successful in bypassing these patches, leading Microsoft to claim that the hacker has stolen their source code.
"There is a lack of common consensus on the various strategies for content piracy. The content development market that comprises movie studios and recording industry has time and again stressed the need for instant DRM solutions which can stop all illegal copying", as per RNCOS report "Digital Rights Management: Opportunities (2006)".
Microsoft's lawyer said that their property was stolen which was used to develop the tool. This is the only method through which 'Viodentia' (pseudonym for the hacker) could make such effective tool, he said.
Microsoft has decided to take legal action against the unknown hacker. Moreover, it will also look for assistance from ISPs (Internet Service Providers) to trace down IP addresses & other data, which could possibly lead them to hacker.
Related Market Research Reports:
Digital Rights Management - An Industry Outlook [2005-2008]
DRM Market Analysis - Future Directions
Consumer Electronics Market Worldwide (2007)
