Sony does it again - root kit

[mips]

http://www.nytimes.com/reuters/technology/tech-sony-malware.html?_r=1&oref=slogin

http://www.f-secure.com/weblog/archives/archive-082007.html#00001264
http://www.avertlabs.com/research/blog/index.php/2007/08/28/hide-me-sony-one-more-time

[dca]

Jesus, you know, I give up....

[Bungo Pony]

There's just so many reasons not to buy ANYTHING made by Sony. I've been anti-Sony since the mid 1990s. Their products are made like crap, and now they're in the business of installing mystery-ware on your computer.

[rsambuca]

Although technically not a "rootkit", it is typical Sony arrogance.

[ruibernardo]

Another one for propriety software. And still people say that they like it, as long they get what they want.

This may seem unappropriated for this thread, but in some threads here in this forum, some people say they don't care about if it's propriety software or open-source, as long it's free like free beer...

Now they can see (one more time) what propriety software is and what it can do.

[mips]

What happened to the last class action lawsuite regarding their cds ?

Maybe people will initiate a new law suite.

[~LoKe]

Although technically not a "rootkit", it is typical Sony arrogance.

It creates hidden files which would allow them to penetrate a computers defenses. How is this not "technically" a rootkit?


A rootkit is a general description of a set of programs which work to subvert control of an operating system from its legitimate operators. Usually, a rootkit will obscure its installation and attempt to prevent its removal through a subversion of standard system security. Techniques used to accomplish this can include concealing running processes, files or system data from the operating system.[1] Rootkits have their origin in benign applications, but in recent years have been used increasingly by malware to help intruders maintain access to systems while avoiding detection. Rootkits exist for a variety of operating systems, such as Microsoft Windows, Mac OS X[2] [3] , Linux and Solaris. Rootkits often modify parts of the operating system or install themselves as drivers or kernel modules.

[rsambuca]

Yes, that is one definition of a rootkit. There are others. I am too tired to get into it because it really doesn't matter.

[~LoKe]

Yes, that is one definition of a rootkit. There are others. I am too tired to get into it because it really doesn't matter.

Then, still by definition, it is a rootkit.

[rsambuca]

By the definition you use, it is. By other definitions, it isn't.

[mips]

Guys, root kit or not, it is bad.

[Crashmaxx]

Do they mean "hidden" folders as in the normal XP hidden ones, that you can see by just selecting "View Hidden Files" or the 'Super' hidden files that you need to know the exact location to find?

[rsambuca]

Guys, root kit or not, it is bad.

100% agree!:popcorn: