Amazon recalls rootkit XCP Sony CDs

Online retailer Amazon has started to recall and replace all the CDs bought from its site that include Sony's XCP copy protection software.

The online retailer has sent a letter to a number of users and has published a note on its website alongside all products that contain the now infamous anti-piracy technology.

"Due to security concerns raised about the use of CDs containing this software on PCs, Sony has recalled these CDs and has asked Amazon.com to remove all unsold CDs with XCP software from our store," the Amazon note states.

"If you purchased this CD from Amazon.com, you may return it to us for a full refund regardless of whether the CD is opened or unopened. Just visit Amazon's Returns Centre and indicate that the CD is 'defective' as the reason for return."

Amazon has also listed all Sony products containing the technology as " unavailable" at present, until it is able to restock with XCP free versions of the discs.

The move follows Sony BMG's backing down on the use of the controversial rootkit technology favoured by hackers earlier this week.

The music giant promised to stop making music CDs that use XCP anti-piracy technology, which installed an application that was very hard to remove.

In an effort to remain installed, the technology deployed a so-called rootkit, typically used in forms of malware, to hide itself from the user and the system.

It took only one week for the first virus to surface that exploited the features of the rootkit to try and hide from antivirus software.

See also:

vnunet.com analysis: Sony CD rootkit could spell doom

Sony accused of undermining system stability in its crusade to protect copyright  07 Nov 2005

Sony turns to UK firm for CD protection

Technology allows discs to be copied a specific number of times  31 May 2005

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