Sony Rootkits its DRM, Part VI: Rise up, Son of Uninstaller, Rise!
Posted on December 6, 2005
Filed Under /dev/null/ | 63 views |
Sony has finally released what they’re purporting to be the definitive uninstaller for the rootkit software their CDs installed on user’s unsuspecting computers. This falls closely, if closely is measured in weeks, on the heels of their previous uninstaller which was in fact worse than doing nothing at all:
CDs containing XCP content protection software developed by First4Internet for SONY BMG may increase the vulnerability of your computer to certain computer viruses. To address these concerns, we are providing you with a software tool for download that offers you two options.
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For users who have previously uninstalled XCP software using the uninstaller made available prior to November 18, 2005, we recommend that you run the currently available uninstaller, to eliminate a potential security vulnerability presented by the earlier uninstaller that was brought to our attention.
Tasty stuff if it works are purported. Uninstalls the XCP rootkit and undoes the potential damage from the other uninstaller. Good for you, Sony.
But wait, what’s this? Are you invoking the DMCA to prevent anyone from digging into this uninstaller to determine how it operates? I think maybe so…
Please be advised that this program is protected by all applicable intellectual property and unfair competition laws, including patent, copyright and trade secret laws, and that all uses, including reverse engineering, in violation thereof are prohibited.
Sigh. So close, Sony. So close yet so far.
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[...] What’s cool about this is it marks Sony BMG’s first chance at eschewing DRM. Which is a bit of a switch, if you’ll recall. Sony had some fun times with DRM, CDs and rootkits last year. But I won’t bring that up again…promise. [...]