Abstract

Digital Rights Management (DRM) is defined as a ‘systematic, technology-based process for copyright protection of digital media’. The case discusses the concept of DRM that emerged in the 1980s to prevent the illegal duplication and distribution of digital works like audio, video, literary articles, computer software, etc. The case then gives examples of companies that used DRM technologies to restrict the usage of their content. It then focuses on the debate on whether companies were justified in using DRM technologies. It also talks about some proposals suggested by analysts that would make DRM more acceptable. The case ends with a discussion on some of the latest developments in DRM.

Learning Objectives

The case is structured to achieve the following Learning Objectives:

• Understand the concept of DRM and the areas where these technologies could be used.: Appreciate the ethical issues concerning the use of DRM technologies.

Keywords

Digital Rights Management, Apple, Fairplay, Music Piracy, Video Piracy, DRM-free products