By Jim Reed

Newsbeat technology reporter



Blu-ray is a type of high definition video disc taking over from DVDs

Slysoft says the new version of its AnyDVD programme allows users to make "backup security copies" of high definition movies.

The claim is a blow to Sony which developed the Blu-ray format.

The discs are protected by an anti-piracy system called BD+.

When it launched in 2007, developers boasted it would not be cracked for 10 years.

Sony declined to comment.

SlySoft says it hacked the BD+ technology in November.

It decided to wait for the result of the "format war" between Blu-ray and HD DVD before releasing a full product.

BD+ is designed to react to attempts on its technology.

Its developers say they can re-lock copied discs, making them unusable in the future.

SlySoft reckons it is prepared for this.

Peer van Heuen from the company said: "The worst-case scenario is our boss locks us up with only bread and water in the company dungeon for three months until we are successful again."