Security concerns hamper mobile content

Three-fifths of content providers wary of delivering content online

Mobile content providers are stalling when it comes to online content provision such as live streaming or mobile TV, according to research from encryption expert SafeNet.

This is despite consumer demand for these services being expected to grow by 600 per cent between now and 2010.

Three-fifths of the 160 content providers questioned by SafeNet said they are wary of delivering content online, with piracy cited as the main security fear.

SafeNet warns that failing to capitalise on consumer demand could lead to millions of pounds of lost revenue, as traditional content delivery methods such as CDs and DVDs are passed over in preference for digital methods.

The company says content providers are missing out on potential business opportunities, as Digital Rights Management (DRM) technology exists to counter piracy fears and enable mobile distribution and content protection.

'With consumers driving demand for mobile TV and live streaming of content, providers are missing out on potential revenue streams,' said Dr Simon Blake-Wilson, managing director, DRM Products, at SafeNet. 'Ovum’s predictions that 30 million customers will be using mobile TV by 2010 should be enough of a wake-up call for content providers to look into how to deliver content online safely.'

'Security fears shouldn’t stand in the way of this trend as the technology exists to enable secure delivery of online and mobile content,' he said.

'Using Digital Rights Management solutions, such as BT Movio, consumers have access to content, while providers ensure the content is secure from illegal copying. This will minimise potential damage through lost revenue and enable content providers to keep up-to-speed with consumer demand.'

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