Xtraview Encryption System
Xtraview is a trademark of Top Up TV. Xtraview was primarily a channel run on British Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) by Top Up TV. However, it is also refers to the system used to "encrypt" the videostream on Xtraview and other channels.
Xtraview Video Encrpyion refers to the patented "encryption" system used on the both the now-defunct Xtraview channel and a number of other Top Up TV services including Setanta Sports and Red Hot TV.
Xtraview is not a true encryption system. Instead a MHEG Application directs the user's set-top box to a hidden videostream broadcast in the clear when a correct PIN number is entered. Unlike traditional channel encryption methods, Xtraview does not require a viewing card. This is an advantage on DTT in the UK, where the vast majority of set top boxes have no ability to decrypt pay channels.
Access to a channel protected using the Xtraview technology is granted by calling a premium rate telephone number. During the call users are asked to give a number displayed on screen. In response they are given another PIN to unlock the service.
However, the PIN system has been subject to widespread hacking. Without encryption the system is easily circumvented by Set top boxes that can access indiviual videostreams by entering the stream PID. More recently the PIN algorithm itself was cracked allowing others to access the service[1].