In considering the scope of First Amendment protection for a decryption program like DeCSS,
we must recognize that the essential purpose of encryption code is to prevent unauthorized access.
Owners of all property rights are entitled to prohibit access to their property by unauthorized persons.
Homeowners can install locks on the doors of their houses. Custodians of valuables can place
them in safes. Stores can attach to products security devices that will activate alarms if the products
are taken away without purchase. These and similar security devices can be circumvented. Burglars
can use skeleton keys to open door locks. Thieves can obtain the combinations to safes. Product security
devices can be neutralized.