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EFF And MPAA On Broadcast Flags

Posted by timothy on from the little-markers-everywhere dept.

mpawlo writes: "Greplaw reports that a broadcast flag is a digital tagging technique used for television programs distributed through digital TV stations. The broadcast flag is used as information stating that the program may not be redistributed. It is not your everyday digital watermarking technique. The idea is to mandate a standard for a broadcast flag. The content providers, through The Motion Picture Association ('MPAA'), will most likely aim for the standard to be lobbied into a law through The Broadcast Protection Discussion Group. Hence, the law would require all hardware able to play the digital TV content to carry broadcast flag equipment (not playing unmarked content). The Electronic Frontier Foundation ('EFF') fears that a law stipulating the standard would threaten creativity. The MPAA has published a list of frequently asked questions ('FAQ') regarding broadcast flags. The EFF has commented the MPAA FAQ."

3 of 148 comments (clear)

  1. Clarity on Broadcast Flags by TheRedHorse · · Score: 1, Redundant

    From EFF:

    What is a broadcast flag?

    The broadcast flag is a sequence of digital bits embedded in a television program that signals that the program must be protected from unauthorized redistribution. It does not distort the viewed picture in any way. Implementation of this broadcast flag will permit digital TV stations to obtain high value content and assure consumers a continued source of attractive, free, over-the-air programming without limiting the consumer's ability to make personal copies.

  2. Re:NIH? by oyenstikker · · Score: 1, Redundant

    Because here in the United States, the big beauracracies bought too many politicians. They know they can get away with making ridiculous rules in their favor.

    --
    The masses are the crack whores of religion.
  3. One small obstacle by The+Cat · · Score: 3, Redundant

    Amendment I

    Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.

    This, along with the M$ stuff, is drifting towards "only approved content will play on your [TV/Rio/PC/PDA]" Who approves the content? Whoops! First amendment!

    GOODNIGHT EVERYBODY!!!