Net Tech Term: broadcast flag

[Keefe]

A bit-sized file that is sent along with a digital television transmission that prohibits high-definition digital video from being recorded in its high-resolution format. The intent of the broadcast flag is to prevent the files from being shared over P2P networks, violating the digital content's copyright. According to FCC regulations, the broadcast flag only will affect traditional through-the-air television programming and not cable or satellite television. The FCC, in November 2003, mandated that all digital television devices sold after July 2005 must incorporate the broadcast flag technology.