SPORE's SecuROM DRM Software

Companies that design and sell computer games, like Electronic Arts, have an interest in making sure that their games are not copied and distributed by illegal means, whether by illegal Peer to Peer sharing, or by simple copying and selling of unauthorized discs on the street corner. DRM or "digital rights management" software is one method that companies use to enforce those copyrights. Unfortunately for consumers, DRM schemes are often implemented without regard for the consumer's rights and can be harmful.

Spore's SecuROM DRM: Invasive and Unannounced

EA and other companies have implemented "SecuROM" DRM software to protect their computer games. This software is installed on the user's computer without warning or notification, and the software changes several important values in critical system files that can cause failures of the operating system, peripheral failures, or result in the game itself being inoperable. Many consumers who have purchased Spore have had problems with their computers immediately following its installation, and certain changes made by SecuROM cannot be removed from the system without completely formatting the hard disk and re-installing the operating system from scratch. Instead of merely protecting EA's intellectual property, this software embeds itself in the consumer's system and behaves like mal-ware, by modifying critical system files without the user's consent or knowledge.

Seeger Weiss LLP is investigating claims of purchasers of EA's SPORE who were unaware of the DRM software being installed, or who had problems with their computer after installing the game for a class action. If you purchased EA's SPORE, and have had these problems please fill out the free case evaluation form. Attorney consultations incur no obligation on your part. All initial consultations are free of charge and do not create an attorney-client relationship.