Content providers should use DRM judiciously

[Brian]

Wall Street Journal technology columnist Walter Mossberg takes a stand against restrictive Digital Rights Management (DRM) in his latest Personal Technology column. From the article:

"Companies have a right to protect their property, and DRM is one means to do so. But treating all consumers as potential criminals by using DRM to overly limit their activities is just plain wrong."

Mossberg is a well respected journalist who covers the technology field, and many people believe he has an influence in the industry. His reviews are very end user oriented and focused on usability. Let's hope the content providers are listening to his message, which also calls for a revamping of U.S. copyright laws to allow for more fair use exemptions for personal use by individuals. He ends with this very strong message that is sure put content providers on notice:

"Until then, I suggest that consumers avoid stealing music and videos, but also boycott products like copy-protected CDs that overly limit usage and treat everyone like a criminal. That would send the industry a message to use DRM more judiciously."

Read the full article here.

[Brian]

To find out more about DRM and how you can take action to defend consumer rights, privacy, and freedom in the digital age, check out the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF).