From Business Week:

U.S. regulators said Tuesday Sony BMG Music Entertainment agreed to reimburse consumers up to $150 for damage to their computers for selling CDs with hidden anti-piracy software.

According to the Federal Trade Commission, which announced the settlement with the big media company, its anti-piracy software limited the devices on which music could be played to those made by Sony Corp. or Microsoft Corp. It also restricted the number of copies that could be made and monitored consumers’ listening habits to send them marketing messages.

Bad Sony! You’ve got until the end of June to exchange any affected CDs purchased before Dec. 31, 2006, and are eligible for for up to $150 to repair damaged caused by the program. Information will be available on Sony’s website per the settlement. —MEGHANN MARCO

Sony BMG Settles FTC Charges [Business Week] [Photo: SevensHeaven]

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