NEW YORK: Copyrighted content on High-Definition DVD may be available for illegal copying despite the supposedly 'bullet-proof' encryption code that goes with it. A hacker known only as Muslix64 posted details showing how to crack the Advanced Access Content System on HD DVDs. The AACS is meant to restrict new HD DVDs from playing only on some devices in order to prevent piracy.
The Doom9 Forum user explained how he decrypted some titles after getting past the security code. He also made a Java-based program called BackupHDDVD and a video that he posted on YouTube to show how anyone can crack the AACS code.
Hollywood studios and disconcerted makers of encryption code are now looking into the claim made by Muslix64. If true, the code decryption could mean a financial threat to movie studios Warner Bros, Universal Studios and Walt Disney, among others. DVD sales accounted for $24 billion of the movie industry's revenues for last year.
Companies that pooled in resources to develop the AACS code include Walt Disney, Microsoft, Intel Corp., Toshiba and Sony would also be affected.
Muslix64 decrypted several titles including Van Helsing, Full Metal Jacket, which were mentioned in his video upload on YouTube. On his next thread expected January 2, he will post more source code to decrypt more HD DVD films.
The AACS is part of the industry's Digital Rights Management program meant to stop people from making illegal copies and circulating freely, including online. Technology experts said the decryption claim by Muslix64, if true, would allow people around the world to copy any HD DVD title using the “key” mentioned in his thread. Many who tried the method suggested by the hacker, reacted on various blogs saying it was “simple” and “effective”.
The AACS code is currently being used by both HD-DVD and the Blu-ray formats.
