Sony Reaches Rootkit Settlement with 39 States

The full extent of Sony BMG's rootkit liabilities came to light Thursday, as a group of 39 states announced they had reached a $4.25 million settlement with the record label over the issue. Like earlier announced agreements with both Texas and California, consumers will be eligible for compensation of up to $175 for those who can provide documented evidence that a Sony rootkit caused damage to their computers.

A website has been set up to provide more information on the settlement. As part of the agreement, Sony BMG has agreed to no longer distribute discs with the copy-protection software in question on them, either MediaMax or XCP. Settlement of the case closes all pending litigation by the states in the matter. Sony BMG said it was pleased with the terms of the settlement.