Content Protection Research Articles

Problems of copyright protection for gaming content

The article is devoted to a comprehensive study of the current issues of copyright protection of game content in the context of the rapid development of the video game industry. The study examines the peculiarities of legal protection of various elements of video games, including software code, audiovisual components, storylines and characters. It analyses the main challenges faced by developers and publishers in protecting their intellectual property rights, including unauthorised copying, piracy and unlicensed modifications. The author analyses the terminology of the industry, in particular, the concept of ‘video game’ which is widely used in international practice. At the same time, the author establishes that the term ‘computer game’ prevails in the European legal space. This terminological difference reflects regional peculiarities in approaches to classification and legal regulation of interactive entertainment products. Despite certain semantic differences, both terms cover electronic games operating on various digital platforms. With the development of online capabilities, video games have moved far beyond the isolated and closed subculture they once were. Video games now create an interactive virtual community and a thriving business that is part artistic expression, part sporting competition and part mass entertainment. A comprehensive analysis of a wide range of court precedents from different jurisdictions relating to the protection of rights to video content in the field of interactive entertainment was carried out. The study of these court decisions allowed the author to identify the key legal approaches and principles applied in cases of copyright infringement of video game elements. It is found that the differences between video games and other intellectual property objects have led to difficulties in determining the legal regime most appropriate to their specifics. Video games include a variety of constituent elements, many of which are eligible for legal protection. The growing involvement of video games in civilian circulation has given rise to the urgent problem of copyright protection for game content.

On the Security of Selectively Encrypted HEVC Video Bitstreams

With the growing applications of video, ensuring its security has become of utmost importance. Selective encryption (SE) has gained significant attention in the field of video content protection due to its compatibility with video codecs, favorable visual distortion, and low time complexity. However, few studies consider SE security under cryptographic attacks. To fill this gap, we analyze the security concerns of encrypted bitstreams by SE schemes and propose two known plaintext attacks (KPAs). Then the corresponding defense is presented against the KPAs. To validate the effectiveness of the KPA, it is applied to attack two existing SE schemes with superior visual degradation in HEVC videos. Firstly, the video sequences are encoded using H.265/HEVC. During encoding, the selected syntax elements are recorded. Secondly, the recorded syntax elements are imported into the HEVC decoder. By utilizing the encryption parameters and the imported data in the decoder, it becomes possible to reconstruct a significant portion of the original syntax elements before encryption. Finally, the reconstructed syntax elements are compared with the encrypted syntax elements in the decoder, allowing the design of a pseudo-key stream (PKS) through the inverse of the encryption operations. The PKS is used to decrypt the existing SE scheme, and the experimental results provide evidence that the two existing SE schemes are vulnerable to the proposed KPAs. In the case of single bitstream estimation (SBE), the average correct rate of key stream estimation exceeds 93%. Moreover, with multi-bitstream complementation (MBC), the average estimation accuracy can be further improved to 99%.

DRPChain: A new blockchain-based trusted DRM scheme for image content protection

The unauthorized replication and distribution of digital images pose significant challenges to copyright protection. While existing solutions incorporate blockchain-based techniques such as perceptual hashing and digital watermarking, they lack large-scale experimental validation and a dedicated blockchain consensus protocol for image copyright management. This paper introduces DRPChain, a novel digital image copyright management system that addresses these issues. DRPChain employs an efficient cropping-resistant robust image hashing algorithm to defend against 14 common image attacks, demonstrating an 85% success rate in watermark extraction, 10% higher than the original scheme. Moreover, the paper designs the K-Raft consensus algorithm tailored for image copyright protection. Comparative experiments with Raft and benchmarking against PoW and PBFT algorithms show that K-Raft reduces block error rates by 2%, improves efficiency by 300ms compared to Raft, and exhibits superior efficiency,decentralization, and throughput compared to PoW and PBFT. These advantages make K-Raft more suitable for digital image copyright protection. This research contributes valuable insights into using blockchain technology for digital copyright protection, providing a solid foundation for future exploration.

A novel approach for long-term secure storage of domain independent videos

Long-term protection of multimedia contents is a complex task, especially when the video has critical elements. It demands sophisticated technology to ensure confidentiality. In this paper, we propose a blended approach which uses proactive visual cryptography scheme along with video summarization techniques to circumvent the aforementioned issues. Proactive visual cryptography is used to protect digital data by updating periodically or renewing the shares, which are stored in different servers. And, video summarization schemes are useful in various scenarios where memory is a major concern. We use a domain independent scheme for summarizing videos and is applicable to both edited and unedited videos. In our scheme, the visual continuity of the raw video is preserved even after summarization. The original video can be reconstructed through the shares using auxiliary data, which was generated during video summarization phase. The mathematical studies and experimental results demonstrate the applicability of our proposed method.

Impact of Digital Fashion Shows on Consumer Engagement with Fashion Brands in Nigeria

Purpose: The aim of the study was to analyze the impact of digital fashion shows on consumer engagement with fashion brands in Nigeria. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: Digital fashion shows have significantly enhanced consumer engagement with fashion brands in Nigeria by offering a dynamic, accessible online experience. These virtual events have allowed brands to reach a broader audience, increasing their visibility and facilitating direct interaction with consumers. Real-time feedback during these shows has enabled brands to fine-tune their marketing strategies and product offerings to align with consumer preferences. The use of augmented reality technologies has further personalized the shopping experience, leading to increased consumer interest and brand loyalty. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Technology acceptance model (TAM), uses and gratifications theory (UGT) & engagement theory may be used to anchor future studies on impact of digital fashion shows on consumer engagement with fashion brands in Nigeria. Fashion brands should leverage a combination of VR, AR, and live-streaming to create more engaging and immersive experiences. By investing in these technologies and incorporating high-quality digital content, brands can enhance consumer interaction and foster deeper emotional connections. Policymakers and industry bodies can work together to establish standards for digital content, technology integration, and consumer privacy protection, which will enhance the overall consumer experience and build trust in digital fashion shows.

Using Zero-Watermarking Algorithm to Protect Arabic Text Documents

In today's digital age where powerful communication media such as the Internet allow for efficient information exchange, copyright protection and authentication of digital content has become an important issue. Plain text is the most widely used means of exchanging information online, and it is important to verify the authenticity of the text. Very limited techniques are available for watermarking and authentication of Arabic text. This paper aims to develop a zero-watermark algorithm to protect the Arabic digital content from being tampering. The algorithm creates an accurate zero watermark based on the characteristics of the content of the Arabic text itself. The watermark is determined by the frequency of appearance of prepositions and their specific locations (في، عن، من، على) in the text. The extraction algorithm used for extracting zero watermark and compared with the created one to prove the authenticity of the Arabic text. This method ensures that any change to the text will lead to a change in the extracted zero watermark, which will facilitate the detection process upon verification. Experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of the algorithm in discovering text tampering (addition, deletion, and rephrasing), tested on nine different text samples with various lengths and attacks, the proposed approach is robust in detecting modifications to the text, even if they are minor, compared to the existing approach.

High-security holographic display with content and copyright protection based on complex amplitude modulation

The computer-generated hologram provides an approach to modulate the coherent wavefront and has been widely applied in holographic displays. In the actual application, holograms need to be transmitted through the network, which results in the illegal acquisition and malicious manipulation of holographic images. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a practical method to protect the content and copyright of holographic images. In this paper, we develop a high-security holographic display method based on complex amplitude modulation. In our proposed method, the complex hologram of a holographic image is decomposed into two phase-only holograms, one of which is designed as the ciphertext, and the other is regarded as the key. As a result, the holographic image can be reconstructed only when the ciphertext and the key are paired, which boosts the security of the holographic image. Meanwhile, the copyright of the holographic image is protected via a watermark that is embedded in the ciphertext in the form of a hologram. Due to the simultaneous use of encryption and watermark technology, our proposed method could transmit holographic images at a high security level, and has great potential to be applied in holographic displays in the future.

Color Image Encryption Based on an Evolutionary Codebook and Chaotic Systems.

Encryption of images is an important method that can effectively improve the security and privacy of crucial image data. Existing methods generally encrypt an image with a combination of scrambling and encoding operations. Currently, many applications require highly secure results for image encryption. New methods that can achieve improved randomness for both the scrambling and encoding processes in encryption are thus needed to further enhance the security of a cipher image. This paper proposes a new method that can securely encrypt color images. As the first step of the proposed method, a complete bit-level operation is utilized to scramble the binary bits in a color image to a full extent. For the second step, the bits in the scrambled image are processed with a sweeping operation to improve the encryption security. In the final step of encryption, a codebook that varies with evolutionary operations based on several chaotic systems is utilized to encrypt the partially encrypted image obtained in the second step. Experimental results on benchmark color images suggest that this new approach can securely encrypt color images and generate cipher images that remain secure under different types of attacks. The proposed approach is compared with several other state-of-the-art encryption approaches and the results show that it can achieve improved encryption security for cipher images. Experimental results thus suggest that this new approach can possibly be utilized practically in applications where color images need to be encrypted for content protection.

Intersection of generative artificial intelligence and copyright: an Indian perspective

Purpose The main objective of this study is to present a compact overview analysis of intellectual property laws, specifically copyright-related provisions applicable to generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) in the Indian context. Design/methodology/approach The paper adopts a qualitative research methodology that is grounded in secondary sources of information. The data were gathered from the Scopus database for a systematic literature review. Findings GenAI technology has given rise to numerous questionable issues within the domain of intellectual property that need resolution in the form of policy solutions. Based on the findings of this paper, it can be deduced that Indian copyright laws are not adequate for addressing the rights pertaining to AI and its creations and outputs. Different countries like the United States, European Union and China have approached the regulation and protection of AI-generated content within the realm of copyright law in different ways. The future of law, as it has been established thus far, seems to be on a path of substantial evolution. Practical implications The study has implications for policymakers globally as there is a need to create feasible policy solutions that can efficiently safeguard against risks stemming from large language models (LLMs) and other GenAI models, while also promoting innovation, technical advancement and adoption. Originality/value The paper discusses the copyright-related issues in GenAI technology in the context of an emerging economy, India.

Copyright Protection of Digital Content in Vietnam’s Internet Age

The digital content sector in Vietnam is viewed as a "new gold mine”, with a multi-billion-dollar industry. We look at Vietnam's legislative framework for copyright protection, which includes both Intellectual Property, and Cybersecurity Laws. The paper contends that while technology can help address some of the issues of preserving digital content, it is not a cure-all and must be used together with legal and educational measures. The significance of international cooperation in preserving digital content is highlighted. Finally, this research presents a complete analysis of Vietnam's current legal framework for copyright protection of digital information, as well as an assessment of the obstacles and limitations in enforcing these laws. It further highlights the importance of international collaboration in digital content protection and asks for increased efforts to deepen cooperation in this area, and is aimed at policymakers, legal professionals, and scholars interested in copyright protection and digital material in Vietnam.

Impact of spray drying operating conditions on yield, secondary metabolites, antioxidant potential and storage quality of grape (Vitis vinifera L.) pomace powder

In the present investigation, spray drying independent operating conditions such as the inlet air temperature (A-IAT 130, 150 and 170 °C), outlet air temperature (B-OAT 60, 70 and 80 °C), needle speed (C-NS 3S, 4S, 5S), maltodextrin concentration (D-MD 10, 15, 20 %), pump speed (E-PS 5, 10, 15 mL/min) and water/grape pomace ratio (F-W/GP ratio 10, 15, 20) were optimized to develop the spray-dried grape pomace powder (SDGPP) with maximum yield. The impact of these conditions on total phenolic contents (TPC), total flavonoid contents (TFC), and antioxidant activity (DPPH· values) of SDGPP samples were analyzed. The independent spray drying factors (IAT, OAT, NS, MD, PS, and W/GP ratio) impart a strong direct effect (p ≤ 0.05) on powder yield, TPC, TFC, and DPPH· values. The interaction effects (A × B, A × C, A × D, A × E, A × F, B × C, B × D, B × E, B × F, C × D, C × E, C × F, D × E, D × F, and E × F) of independent variables were noted non-significant (p ≥ 0.05) for response values. After validation of the model and verification of results, the independents' variables were found in the range of 170 °C (IAT), 80 °C (OAT), 4S (NS), 15 % (MD), 10 mL/min (PS) and 15 (W/GP ratio) for yield (64.7 ± 1.18 %), TPC (7.66 ± 0.53 mg GAE/g), TFC (3.19 ± 0.30 mg CE/g) and DPPH· 140.3 ± 1.59 (100 µL/mL), respectively. The decrease in TPC, TFC, and DPPH· values of SDGPP samples was noted during 60 days of storage at 25 ± 2 °C and 65 ± 5 % RH (p ≤ 0.05) but not greater than unprocessed samples. It could be concluded that the protection of phenolic contents and retention of antioxidant activity of dried powders can be achieved at optimized spray drying conditions for discerning food and byproduct processing industries.

A Cloud-based Multimedia Storage Protection System

The rapid growth of digital media and the internet has revolutionized the way multimedia content is created, distributed, and consumed. However, this growth has also led to an increase in copyright infringement and unauthorized use of protected content, posing major difficulties for content creators and distributors. Traditional content protection methods are often inadequate in addressing these challenges, necessitating the development of more advanced and robust solutions.

Stream Shield: An Anti-Piracy Movie Streaming Android Application with Screen Recording Detection and Integrated Media Content Protection using Advance Encryption Standard (AES) Algorithm

In the context of movie streaming, unauthorized screen recording during playback poses a significant threat to the integrity of copyrighted content, leading to illicit distribution and negatively impacting both content creators and legitimate viewers. To combat these issues, "StreamShield," an anti-piracy movie streaming Android application, has been developed. This project focuses on integrating algorithms and technology to address screen recording detection and content protection while actively engaging users in the fight against piracy. The key features of the StreamShield application are designed to fortify content protection and enhance the user experience. The application itself incorporates an Anti-Screen Recording Mechanism, an Encrypted Media File system using the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) algorithm, and a Picture Overlay Interference feature that adds an extra layer of complexity for illicit screen recording. By addressing these challenges, StreamShield not only redefines copyright enforcement but also empowers users to actively participate in safeguarding creative content. This project adheres to ISO-25010 guidelines, ensuring functionality, performance efficiency, reliability, and usability, thus contributing to a more secure and accountable digital entertainment ecosystem.

Enhancing Data Protection through Advanced Encryption or Improving Data Security with Advanced Encryption

The protection of information content is becoming a key concern with the recent exponential growth of digital data interchange over computer networks. Numerous security vulnerabilities can readily jeopardize the information sent over a network. An enhanced modification for the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) algorithm is proposed and implemented using an additional key that generated using a linear feedback shift register (LFSR), which provides an efficient technique to pseudo random number generation and also reduces the number of rounds. Cryptography plays a crucial role in ensuring the security of digital data transmission over these unsafe networks. When compared to the original AES algorithm result, the suggested technique produces the expected results for several data types, including text, images, It is more important than ever to strengthen data protection procedures in an era of rising cyber dangers and growing reliance on digital data. A thorough framework for "Enhancing Data Protection through Advanced Encryption" (EDPAE) is introduced in this study. The project's goal is to protect sensitive data by utilizing state-of-the-art encryption techniques in response to the ever-changing cyber security scenario. In addition, the project places a strong emphasis on how to seamlessly incorporate advanced encryption into current data storage and communication systems in order to minimize interference with user operations and greatly improve overall security posture. In order to guarantee the secure creation, distribution, and storage of encryption keys and to reduce potential risks related to key compromise, key management features are addressed.

DETECTING THE SECURITY LEVEL OF VARIOUS CRYPTOSYSTEMS USING MACHINE LEARNING MODELS

In contemporary data management, cloud storage is widely adopted, yet it remains susceptible to security vulnerabilities. Utilizing cryptography techniques is essential for enhancing data security in such environments. One promising approach is hybrid cryptography, which combines multiple algorithms to bolster protection. Our proposed solution integrates RDH with DES algorithms, leveraging their respective strengths to fortify data security before it's stored in the cloud. Extensive testing has validated the efficacy of this approach. Specifically, we introduce an RDH with DES block-based transformation algorithm tailored for image content protection. Notably, our framework enables direct image retrieval and convolution on the content-protected images, enhancing usability alongside security. Keywords: deployment models, Infrastructure as a service, cryptosystems, machine learning

What are practitioners' views of how digital health interventions may play a role in online child sexual abuse service delivery?

Online child sexual abuse (OCSA) affects considerable numbers of children globally and is associated with a variety of mental health problems. Existing practitioner studies suggest that young people are infrequently asked about online abuse and practitioners have a fragmented understanding of the problems experienced or how they might approach them. There are very few evidence-based interventions that guide clinical assessment or practice. Digital Health Interventions (DHIs) have the potential to be an effective option where children and young people's services are challenged, including accessibility and anonymity. The aim of this study was to explore mental health practitioners' views of how DHIs may play a role in supporting young people who have experienced OCSA, and the role they can play in healthcare delivery. In-depth qualitative interviews and one focus group were conducted with 25 child mental health professionals across two sites (Manchester and Edinburgh). Data was analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Three overarching themes and 9 sub-themes were identified: (1) feeling a little bit lost; (2) seeing potential problems; and (3) knowing what works. Practitioners expressed interest in a DHI to support this client group and saw it as a way of managing waiting lists and complementing existing therapies. They felt that many young people would see this as a preferred medium to in-person therapy, would be empowering, and offers new ways of learning how to stay safe online. However, there were concerns about how much time would be needed by staff to deliver a DHI, anxieties about safety issues in relation to content and data protection, some of which may be unique to this population of young people, and concerns about the absence of a therapeutic relationship with vulnerable children. Our findings indicated that practitioners were uncertain about working with children subjected to OCSA but were receptive to the possibility of using a DHI to support their practice and to reduce waiting lists. Concerns were expressed about the time needed for staff training and support as well as concerns over patient safety and the lack of evidence about the effectiveness of an unsupported DHI.

Development and study of content protection models for online courses

The development and investigation of content protection models for online courses is an urgent task in light of the growing popularity of online education and the need to protect content from unauthorised access and distribution. The purpose of this study is to create effective and reliable models for protecting the content of online courses. To achieve the goal, methods of analysis of existing content protection systems and mathematical modelling were used. Models based on various security approaches, including cryptography methods, watermarks, and access rights management systems, have been developed and tested. The main result of the research was the creation of tools to protect the content of online courses, which includes a comprehensive protection system using cryptographic algorithms and watermarks. An access rights management system has also been developed, which allows restricting access to content only for authorised users. The results obtained confirm the effectiveness of using a combined content protection system and can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorised access and distribution of online course content. The practical significance of the study lies in the possibility of applying the developed models for protecting the content of online courses in practical conditions. They can be used in various educational organisations providing online courses, and in other areas where protection of digital content from unauthorised access and distribution is required. The use of the developed content protection models will improve the security level of online courses and reduce the risks of leakage of confidential information. Moreover, the developed models can be used as an example in the development of similar digital content protection systems in other areas. In general, this research has a high practical significance and can be useful for everyone involved in the creation, storage, and distribution of digital content.

Secure Transmission in the Digital Age: Exploring Exchange Encrypted Watermarking Technology

In an era defined by the pervasive nature of digital data and the persistent specter of cyberattacks, the imperative to safeguard sensitive information and intellectual property has ascended to a position of paramount importance. This essay embarks on a comprehensive exploration of exchange encrypted watermarking technology, a cutting-edge and highly secure methodology for data protection that seamlessly amalgamates the foundational tenets of digital watermarking and encryption. By delving deep into the concept underpinning this technology, elucidating its core principles, and elucidating its multifaceted applications, this essay seeks to illuminate the transformative potential it holds within our data-driven world. The convergence of digital watermarking and encryption not only fortifies the defenses against data breaches but also paves the way for a new era of secure data sharing, digital rights management, and content protection. This innovative approach offers a dynamic response to the evolving landscape of cyber threats, establishing itself as a potent guardian of our digital assets and a catalyst for the secure exchange of information in an increasingly interconnected global environment.

БІЗНЕС-МОДЕЛІ ОСНОВНИХ ГРАВЦІВ НА ПОЛІ ЦИФРОВОЇ ДИСТРИБУЦІЇ ЕЛЕКТРОННИХ КНИЖОК В УКРАЇНІ. 2011–2023

<p><em>A new field of e-book distribution has emerged and developed in Ukraine due to the impact of digital technology on the publishing industry.</em></p><p><strong><em>This research aims to</em></strong><em>: Identify the key players in the field of digital distribution of e-books by Ukrainian publishers from 2011 to 2023. Analyse and describe the value propositions and business models of digital book distribution start-ups in Ukraine.</em></p><p><strong><em>Research methodology. </em></strong><em>The study analyses the value propositions and business models of various companies operating in e-book distribution in Ukraine, using the case study method and mystery shopping. The generalisation of the data obtained as a result of the case study was achieved by using historical, analytical, synthetic and comparative methods, classification methods and a systematic approach.</em></p><p><strong><em>Results. </em></strong><em>Thirteen players were found to be active in e-book distribution between 2011 and 2023 (seven entered the market in 2011</em><em>–</em><em>2018 and another six in 2019</em><em>–</em><em>2023), with three platforms closing in the last five years. Of the ten active players, six specialise in e-book sales with a «digital only» business model (Booxters, Booknet, Chytanka, Librarius, Pocketbook) and four are online bookstores with an omnichannel business model, selling both print books and e-books (Yakaboo, KnigoLand, Knygarnya «E», Nash format). The main business model for all players in e-book distribution is direct sales, although distributors are increasingly adopting combined business models (direct sales plus subscription). A positive trend is the implementation in the field of digital distribution of e-books in Ukraine of business models that are popular in foreign digital publishing, in particular, self-publishing (Booknet) and e-book lending (Librarius). Important for the development of Ukrainian digital book production and sales is the focus of distributors on ensuring closed access and strict protection of book content against piracy sharing.</em></p><p><strong><em>The novelty </em></strong><em>lies in the development of a chronological list of the main players who have worked (or are working) in the field of digital distribution of Ukrainian e-books; identifying their business models and analysing their value propositions: e-book formats, types of access to content and ways of protecting content.</em></p><p><strong><em>Practical significant</em></strong><em>. The results of this research will be used in lectures for students of the educational program «Publishing and editing» in Ukrainian universities, and will also draw the attention of the publishing community to the problems of the development of digital book publishing.</em></p><p><strong><em>Key words</em></strong><em>: bookselling, business models, digital distribution, digital book publishing, e-book, field of digital distribution, omnichannel.</em></p>

Influence of Plasma-Activated Water on Foliar and Fruit Micronutrient Content and Plant Protection Efficiency

Foliar fertilizing is very important to supply apple plants with calcium and micronutrients. The most cost-effective approach to this is the application of the fertilizers in tank mixtures with plant protection chemicals. Plasma-activated water (PAW) has great potential for the use in the agriculture. We used two type of PAWs, PAW1 (made using underwater electrical discharge in an aqueous KNO3 solution and includes reactive nitrogen species and platinum nanoparticles) and PAW2 (made using a plasma torch with nitrogen gas makeup and contains reactive nitrogen species but not metals). We studied the impact of two PAW types on the contents of Ca, B, Mn, Fe, and Co in leaves and Ca, Mn, Fe, Zn, and Mo in fruits sprayed with tank mixtures containing the fertilizers. We also tested the efficiency of PAW in the control of apple scab when applied as tank mixtures with plant protection chemicals. The application of the PAWs significantly increased foliar Ca when the PAW was mixed with Ca-containing formulations (spraying PAW1 containing Ca increased leaf Ca by up to 21%, and PAW2 up by to 9% compared to Ca spraying without PAW). The largest fruit Ca increase was in the variant treated with PAW1 with a micronutrient spraying program (up to 143%). The PAW treatments enhanced the baseline mineral contents of the plants even when they were not sprayed with the nutrients. PAW1 mainly increased the nutrient contents of the apple fruits. PAWs have proven to be efficient for the control of apple scab, thereby reducing the demand for fungicides. The scab damage to the leaves and fruits was similar in plants treated with PAWs without fungicides (1.7–1.9% on the leaves and 1.6–1.8% on the fruits) compared to the conventional chemical scab control (0.9% leaves and 0.6% fruits) and was significantly lower than in the untreated control (9.3% on leaves and 11.9 on fruits).