Cybersecurity Challenges in Music Streaming Services: A Review on Content Protection

Abstract

Online music streaming has rapidly become the primary method for consumers to access audio content, driven by widespread internet availability and diverse hardware platforms. To safeguard digital assets, music streaming platforms commonly employ Digital Rights Management (DRM) systems to prevent unauthorized duplication of music files—a critical component for sustaining their business models. This paper reviews existing content protection mechanisms and evaluates vulnerabilities within leading music streaming services. Specifically, we propose and assess a memory-based approach capable of bypassing DRM protections on four major platforms: Tidal, Apple Music, Spotify, and Amazon Music. Experimental results demonstrate that this method can semi-automatically circumvent DRM, raising significant concerns regarding the robustness of current content protection strategies. The findings underscore the need for stronger security measures to ensure the integrity and financial viability of music streaming services.