Sony Bug Helps Virus Writers

The back of a bench is often more interesting than its front. Here's the proof that sitting for too long on benches can be linked with hemorrhoids.

Sony CD Bug

Sophos have produced a piece of software that uncloaks and removes Sony's XCP copy-protection technology. When discs with XCP are played on a computer, the listener is asked to click through a consent form and install the copy-protection software which is designed to limit the number of copies that can be made of the CD and to prevent a computer user from making unprotected MP3s of the music.

Unfortunately XCP could be used by virus writers to make their malicious code invisible. Sophos reports that Sony's DRM (Digital Rights Management) copy protection included on some of their recent CDs is introducing a vulnerability which hackers and virus writers are able to exploit.

Sony BMG announced 11/11/05 they will stop producing cd's with the DRM rootkit technology. But, it's only a temporary move. Partial list of Sony CDs to avoid if you have a Windows based computer. Alternatively, disable automatic update and keep the ctrl key pressed as the CD boots. I'll stick to my LPs. Thanks but no thanks Sony and keep your damn code off my computer.