Sony's 'rootkit' controversy

About two weeks ago, the Internet community got into an uproar after news surfaced that Sony-branded music CDs installed potentially malicious software on users' computers. The type of software installed is known as a 'rootkit,' and while the software does not have bad intent, it can be manipulated by others for purposes of destruction. A good, basic explanation comes from CNet's excellent FAQ on the debacle:

A rootkit is a powerful piece of software that takes over control of a computer at the most fundamental level. In computer terms, it establishes "root" access, which is similar to administrative access, instead of access for just an ordinary user. It can potentially prevent a computer user from detecting its presence or from performing certain tasks on their own PC.

And so, lo and behold, two weeks later, the first exploits are out on the Internet. Unfortunately for users at risk, uninstalling Sony's software may kill your computer and force you to reformat your entire hard drive. As a result, the Electronic Frontier Foundation is 'considering litigation' against Sony on behalf of affected users. Sounds to me like Sony has some trouble on their hands.