AACS Cracked Again

The copy protection behind next-generation movies has already been defeated after a new update, according to hackers' claims. Although the body handling the AACS system that guards the discs had changed the encryption keys to thwart earlier attempts -- prompted in part by the Digg revolt that published one key -- the hacker posted the new key just a day after it had been updated, rendering the new security measure useless. Developers at SlySoft are said to have already implemented the new key in their controversial AnyDVD software, which allows viewers to copy and strip down AACS-protected movies.

The stability of the hacked key is said to be relatively safe, according to reports. As makers of movie hardware and software have to be given a 90-day notice to update their existing keys, the AACS agency is unable to make an immediate follow-up to block the new hack. Movie studios will be required to produce vulnerable movies for roughly three months before another change can take place.

The attempts to reinforce security may become less necessary in the near future, however, as the AACS body hopes to implement a managed copy system that will allow limited copies for normal uses, such as backups or transferring to copy-protected media players. [via Ars Technica]

By Electronista Staff