NTL Ireland rolls out Nagra 3 encryption

Rumours suggest that NTL Ireland is in the process of rolling out Nagra 3, a more secure encryption system that is likely to have a big impact on cable piracy.

Over the past two weeks a number of channels have moved over to what appears to be Nagra 3 encryption, with the following channels apparently affected:
Adult channel
Playboy
TVX
The Box
Zee TV
Chelsea FC
Celtic FC
Liverpool FC
MUTV
Setanta Sports 1 & 2
Setanta golf
Racing UK
ESPN America
God Channel

The move should especially protect NTL Ireland against cable piracy, as at present Nagravision’s N3 encryption is believed to be secure.

Already enjoying wide use already within Europe, especially in satellite broadcasts, Nagra 3 encryption is likely to impact anyone in Ireland currently accessing paid for cable content via boxes such as the Eurovox, Starview, Kryptview, and other modified cable boxes.

There has been no official announcement from UPC, which owns the service.

It also remains to be seen whether Virgin Media are also planning to move to N3 encryption in the UK.

While Virgin Media has been rumoured to be considering a move to the Nagra 3 encryption, there has been no official comment on the possibility of such a move, and a press spokesperson for Virgin Media was unable to provide any details.