Can you fill us (or maybe just me) in on what Rootkit is and why it's a problem?
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What kind of files are they hiding? Copy protection routines?
I really don't like the way Sony puts DRM ahead of EVERYTHING. It doesn't stop the criminals, but it makes it all much more difficult for the rest of us.
But read what a mess this DRM makes.
I hate to write this, but its sad when pirated music is a better product than the real thing.
Bob
this is rediculous....you buy a cd, and you can't even make another copy for a family member or for your car/radio etc. thats completely crazy. and with the patch, you can't even play the cds on your computer. Sony music doesn't really have any good artists out right now anyways. so meh
The workaround, from Sony, is to insert the CD into the Mac, bring up iTunes and rip it as normal.
The RootKit does not work on a Mac.
Just thought you might be interested but, this does not make Sony's actions any less reprehensible.
P
The root kit methodolgy is used by hackers and virus writers to gain a back door and/or contol of computers. Because of this it's a potential security risk even if Sony claims it just to protect their rights. It apparently does phone home.
Consider this ...
It's installed on your computer without your knowledge or permission just by the act of playing the Sony CD.
It's cloaked so you can't tell it's there by using normal system utilites.
It may compromised your system if the ''bad boys'' figure out how to walk in the door Sony opened on your computer.
After the initial public outrage Sony offered a ''patch'' that doesn't remove the root kit but only lets you see that it's there.
Attempts at removal by knowledgeable users have resulted in disabled CD drives and unstable or unbootable systems.
Hummmm .... sounds like malware at the VERY least. Read more about it here.
http://www.cnet.com/4520-6033_1-6376177.html?tag=nl.e501