Sony Pays Out
You may remember a big stink last year with Sony BMG involving rootkit software on some music CDs. The software was installed behind the user’s back. Three class action lawsuits were initiated against Sony shortly after. They were all consolidated in a settlement Monday. Those who purchased the viral CDs have their choice of a $7.50 refund plus 1 free album download, or no refund and three free album downloads. A slap on the wrist for Sony, but adequate compensation for the victims.
I hope other media companies are paying attention. Piracy sucks, but antipiracy measures suck worse. It’s always the legitmate customers who suffer for it. The pirates will still get what they want no matter what sort of protection is wrapped around the media. I’m wondering if it’s ever going to sink in at the coporate level. Probably not, but one can hope. Sony still has an outstanding lawsuit in Texas. I hope they get hit harder in that one.
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