If you're reading an e-book, you've probably heard the term "DRM", but what is a DRM e-book? DRM stands for Digital Rights Management and is meant to control access to copyrighted material. In general, it can protect users from illegal copying and use of software and information (such as e-books).
E-books are DRM protected, what does that mean?
DRM locks the file so that only the purchaser's and supplier's devices or applications can view the file. This means that if you buy a book on Amazon, you can only read it in the Kindle app or your Kindle. Not only that, even if other people are using the same device, you can't share the book. (Except through Amazon's Limited Lending Program)
There are other restrictions: The number of devices that can be downloaded from the same e-book at a time is limited and the book cannot be printed. (If possible, the book may be watermarked or partially printed)
Why use a DRM e-book?
Some authors spent a lot of time and money on the novel and don't want the book to be stolen. After all, money is the basis for survival! DRM is there to protect e-books from copyright infringement. Unfortunately, DRM is more deterrent than reliability because it can be compromised. It is also a problem for legitimate e-book owners trying to read books bought on different devices.
Which e-books are DRM protected?
Different vendors use different DRM systems to protect e-books. There are three main systems for DRM e-books.
Amazon's DRM
Amazon has its own DRM that every e-book uses, meaning you can't view Kindle books without the Kindle or Kindle app. Plus, you can't copy files to share books with others. You have to go through Amazon's limited loan program.
Apple FairPlay DRM
iTunes uses Apple's DRM, so these e-books can only be read by the Apple Books app.
Adobe DRM
All third-party DRM-based vendors use Adobe, including Barnes & Noble, Google Play, and Kobo. You can view e-books downloaded from these distributors through their device or specific application (such as Nook , nook app, Google Play book, Kobo e-book reader, etc.) or Adobe Digital Editions Adobe software created and used to unlock DRM.When you buy a book and open it in Adobe Digital Editions, it will be linked to your Adobe account and will No one can open it again. (To prevent sharing)
DRM free e-book
All of these vendors also offer authors and publishers a "DRM-free" option. Very few publishers have chosen this option. But many authors have opted to make it easier for readers to enjoy their books.Smashwords today is DRM-free at all, meaning you can copy files to whatever device you want (MOBI for Kindle and EPUB for another cleaner). Any) without any problem.
Sharing e-books with or without DRM is illegal
Just because a book file is DRM-free doesn't mean you can share it with others. All books are still protected by copyright, and it is illegal to share ebooks with people who have not bought them (Amazon allows readers to borrow certain books purchased for a person of their choice. But as mentioned above, the book has strict restrictions and the author / publisher agrees to borrow the book.)