Sony BMG controversies
Controversies tied to this brand in public sources. A listing is not a finding of fault.
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2008
Children’s online privacy violations
The Federal Trade Commission alleged that Sony BMG websites collected and displayed personal information from approximately 30,000 minors without parental consent. The action implicated United States privacy and consumer-protection requirements and resulted in a reported $1 million fine.
2005
Sony BMG rootkit DRM controversy
Some Sony BMG CDs installed XCP copy-protection software automatically and concealed components from computer users. Security authorities and researchers identified vulnerabilities, while a related removal mechanism was also criticized. Sony BMG recalled affected discs and faced lawsuits and substantial reputational damage.
Promotional contest allegations involving radio stations
Epic Records, a Sony BMG label, was cited in allegations that contests were used to obscure the fact that prizes were directed to disc jockeys rather than ordinary listeners. The available reference identifies the controversy but does not provide a precise date or final disposition.