FCC targets digital TV recorders to block Internet piracy

October 16, 2003

GristyMcFisty used our news submit to tell us
of trouble brewing in the federal government. As we all feared and expected
Uncle Sam and it lobbying cronies would like to require that devices with the
ability to record Digital TV signals be saddled with technology to block the
content from being shared the Net.

A rule being considered by
the Federal Communications Commission is one of a series of
proposals pushed by the entertainment industry to help thwart copying and
online trading of movies and television shows that increasingly are being
broadcast in digital form with high-quality picture and
sound.

But the new rule also would force
consumers to purchase new equipment if they wanted to record enhanced
digital-quality television programs and replay them on other
machines.

Opponents of the proposed rule, including
many technology companies and consumer groups, say it won't work. They are
especially concerned that the plan might lead to government regulation of
how personal computers and other devices are built, particularly if
hackers crack the system and further changes are deemed
necessary.

Even though the new rule would not affect consumers
who record shows with VCRs and would not include programming
received on a cable or satellite system...yet. It still spells trouble and
layers of annoyances that may be coming down the pike later. No doubt as things
progress the government will be lobbied to take a second look at the misbehaving
public. Hello Mr. Smith, we are from the federal government and are here to help
you. Would you kindly direct us to your media room and equipment?

You can read the rest of the story over at Yahoo. Thanks for the heads up
Gristy!

Source: news.yahoo.com