Method and system for controlling video media

Abstract

A method and system for controlling video input media is described. The method includes receiving video media via a video media input device. The video media input device is communicatively coupled with and operable in conjunction with the electronic device. The method further includes monitoring a data path within the electronic device associated with the video media. The monitoring is performed by a compliance mechanism communicatively coupled with and operable in conjunction with the electronic device. The method further includes preventing the video media from reaching a usage mechanism via the data path, the usage mechanism communicatively coupled with the electronic device. The usage mechanism is able to create an environment in which the video media can be used in an unauthorized manner. The preventing performed by the compliance mechanism is done when usage of the video media with the usage mechanism violates a usage restriction applicable to the video media.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A method for controlling unauthorized usage of video media accessible via an electronic device, said method comprising:
 receiving an instance of video media via a video media input device, said video media input device communicatively coupled with and operable in conjunction with said electronic device, said electronic device an environment with which said video media is usable;   monitoring a data path within said electronic device associated with said video media, said monitoring performed by a compliance mechanism communicatively coupled with and operable in conjunction with said electronic device; and   preventing said video media from reaching a usage mechanism via said data path, said usage mechanism communicatively coupled to and operable in conjunction with said electronic device, said usage mechanism enabled to create an environment in which said video media can be used in an unauthorized manner, said preventing performed by said compliance mechanism when usage of said video media with said usage mechanism violates a usage restriction applicable to said video media.