Motion Picture Associationof America (MPAA) chief Jack Valenti has hailed a court order blocking UScompany 321 Studios from making, distributing or selling its DVD-copyingsoftware.

The Burbank-based MPAA, aninfluential congressional lobbyist that represents the global interests of theUS majors and other affiliates, sought legal action in keeping with itspro-copyright philosophy.

Judge Susan Illston of NewYork's Southern District Court granted the studios motion for summary judgmentand found 321 Studios in violation of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act(DMCA).

The DMCA was passed in 1998and outlaws the copying of commercial DVDs, among other provisions. Companiesthat allegedly breached the statute open themselves up to criminal and civilaction.

"Companies have a responsibilityto develop products that operate within the letter of the law and that do notexpose their customers to illegal activities," Valenti said in a statement.

"[The] ruling sends a clearmessage that it is essential for corporations to protect copyrighted workswhile facilitating the enjoyment of entertainment offerings through new digitaltechnologies."