DEPARTMENT
Crackz
DEFINITION kracks n: Webspeak for codes that override digital security features
CONTEXT There is a 32-character crack that disables the digital lock that prevents HD-DVDs from being copied–dangerous for the $24 billion DVD industry. After a website posted the code in February, lawyers demanded its removal. The online reaction then boiled over: the crack suddenly popped up everywhere. A song has even appeared on YouTube with the code as its lyrics.
USAGE Content piracy costs billions. But software, CD and DVD security is now so tight that critics say it curtails legitimate uses. Expect the arms race between hackers and hacked to continue.
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