Hacker Cracks HD DVD, Blu-ray Protections

SHERMAN OAKS, Calif. — A hacker on the popular Doom9.net message forum has cracked the processing keys for both Blu-ray and HD DVD discs. By breaking the key, encrypted content can be extracted from both of the next-gen formats.

Hackers had previously broken a more cumbersome key in early January, but this new crack makes it easier to rip the content off the disc.

The hacker, who goes by Arnezami on Doom9.net, expanded the breach to unlock all Advanced-Access-Content System-protected content. AACS is an extra security layer, which prevents high-definition discs from illegal copying by restricting which devices can play them.

“AACS took years to develop and it has been broken in weeks,” BoingBoing.com reporter Cory Doctorow said. “The developers spent billions, the hackers spent pennies.”

Arnezami has posted cracks to movies such as “Constantine,” “Lady in the Water,” “Kiss Kiss Bang Bang,” “Mission Impossible 3” and “Miami Vice.”

Doctorow predicts a bleak future for copy protection. Once the cat is out of the bag and encrypted content can be hacked, extracted and posted on BitTorrent or other file sharing services, there are very limited means for plugging the holes the hackers created.

It typically takes electronics manufacturers longer to issue a security patch than it does for hackers to crack it.

“There is no future in which bits will get harder to copy,” Doctorow said. “Instead of spending billions on technologies that attack paying customers, the studios should be confronting that reality and figuring out how to make a living in a world where copying will get easier and easier. They’re like blacksmiths meeting to figure out how to protect the horseshoe racket by sabotaging railroads.”

Copyright © 2025 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More News

Roxie Rae Relaunches Site Through XSiteAbility

Roxie Rae has relaunched her site through XSiteAbility.

Nicole Nixon Stars in Latest From Immoral

Nicole Nixon stars with Matt Bird, Dean Van Damme, and "Porno Dan" Leal in a new three-part release from Immoral Productions.

Kiki Cali Toplines 'Pleasure Vixens 4' From BAM Visions

Kiki Cali headlines the fourth volume of "Pleasure Vixens," co-directed by multi-XMAs winner Mick Blue and Maestro Claudio, aka BAM Visions, from Evil Angel.

Brianna Coppage Makes Her WIFEY Debut

Creator Brianna Coppage stars with her husband Phillip and Jax Slayher in the latest release from Vixen Media Group studio imprint WIFEY.

Isa Bella, Selena Ivy Topline 'Lesbian Sex 28'

Isa Bella and Selena Ivy headline the latest release from Girlfriends Films, titled “Lesbian Sex 28.”

Catherine Knight Stars in Latest From Brazzers

Catherine Knight stars in the latest release from Brazzers, titled "GRWM (To Fuck)."

Federal Appeals Court Vacates FTC 'Click to Cancel' Rule Pending Review

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 8th Circuit on Tuesday vacated the Federal Trade Commission’s “click-to-cancel” rule aimed at making it easier for consumers to cancel online subscriptions, pending further review.

Elegant Angel Premieres Nicole Kitt Showcase 'Cats Eye'

Nicole Kitt gets the spotlight in a new four-part showcase release from Elegant Angel.

Private Releases 'The Love Hotel 2'

Private has released “The Love Hotel 2,” directed by Dave Menich.

Show More