Even the most optimistic analysts concede that the latest encryption such as the kind Sightsound uses lasts only a year or so before intrepid pirates break the code. That's why work starts on a new encryption method almost as soon as the old one is implemented. Video rental chain Blockbuster Inc will soon stream movies from a central computer - a plan Hollywood prefers because it keeps them in control of their intellectual property. Blockbuster is bypassing the Internet altogether, opting for a private network established by Enron Corp and several phone companies and providers of Digital Subscriber Line service. The biggest challenge facing Hollywood may not be how to thwart pirates, but how to coexist with them.
Security is about keeping honest people honest.
The company allows copyright owners to encrypt files and control access to them. The average citizen will be happy to do it if the price is right. Copyright John Fairfax Holdings Ltd 2000. Any unauthorised use, copying or mirroring is prohibited.