NewsRegal CineMedia Chooses Certicom Cryptography to Protect Digital Content Network
07:00 EST Tuesday, March 09, 2004
Theatre Digital Distribution innovator uses Certicom encryption to
protect proprietary content from satellite transmission
MISSISSAUGA, ON, March 9 /CNW/ - Certicom Corp. (TSX: CIC), the authority for strong, efficient cryptography, today announced that it has successfully designed a custom security solution for Regal CineMedia Corporation(SM) (RCM) entertainment services, the media subsidiary of Regal Entertainment Group (REG, NYSE:RGC), the largest theatre operator in the world. Using the Security Builder(R) Crypto(TM) developer toolkit, the companies developed an encryption system that allows RCM to securely send copyrighted digital content by satellite to selected theatres. REG, comprised of Regal(R) Cinemas, United Artists(SM) Theatres and Edwards(R) Theatres, operates over 6,000 screens in 555 locations throughout the U.S.
The security solution supports RCM's Digital Content Network(SM) distribution system, the largest network of its kind in the world, featuring the ability to digitally distribute validate, manage, and control content directly to over 5000 theatre screens. The DCN delivers digital video content including entertainment, educational and sports programming, as well as on- screen and in-lobby marketing and advertising products. In addition to protecting data during satellite transmission, the Certicom solution stores the data in encrypted format and only decrypts it at show time, when the files are fed in real time to digital projectors.
"RCM's Digital Content Network allows us to radically change and enhance the customer experience. Not only can we offer theatre-goers exciting, entertaining pre-show content, we can simulcast exclusive "virtual" music concerts, educational events and other special events," said Tom Galley, EVP of Technology and CTO at Regal CineMedia. "However, this type of network has unique performance requirements. Content owners have to be absolutely confident that their material is safe. We chose Certicom because their products and experience give us that level of confidence."
Content protection from unauthorized copying, modification and redistribution is of great concern for content owners and distributors. Protecting digital content requires a strong security solution that protects copyrighted material while offering the flexibility to provide quick or immediate access to material.
According to Galley, RCM was impressed that Certicom could augment its existing product, Security Builder Crypto, and develop the unique requirements of RCM, to deliver a strong, customized solution within the tight deadline. Security Builder Crypto is a flexible, standards-based cryptography toolkit that includes standard cryptography algorithms as well as Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC), a public-key cryptography technique that is ideal for supporting the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES). ECC key sizes scale linearly with AES, resulting in stronger security and improved performance over legacy systems.
In addition, the efficient code within Security Builder Crypto dramatically improves processing speeds while minimizing storage requirements. Development time can be reduced as the comprehensive suite eliminates the need to integrate multiple toolkits into applications.
"Regal CineMedia is a pioneer in digital media using leading edge technology to redefine and enhance the customer experience," said Ian McKinnon, president and CEO of Certicom. "As the value of entertainment increases, so does the need for strong security. Our secure and efficient solution will help to keep them at the forefront of digital cinema."
About Regal CineMedia
Regal CineMedia is a wholly owned subsidiary of Regal Entertainment Group (NYSE: RGC) focusing on the expansion and development of advertising and new uses for Regal's theatre assets, while at the same time enhancing the movie- going experience. Regal CineMedia operates other divisions that focus on meetings and special productions in a theatre environment, including the presentation of entertainment, educational and sports events, as well as the sale of group tickets and gift certificates. Visit www.regalcinemedia.com or www.REGmovies.com.