.swf security question and site setup

[Leftyplayer]

I am using CS3 with AS3. I have a series of flash games, each of which has the main .swf, a preloader .swf, 1-2 .as files and an xml file.

1. I'll be using php (login is required) and am wondering if it's any different embedding a .swf file int a php page than an html page?

2. Would it be feasible or advisable to set up the files in an sql database and call them in from the php page .... in other words, would this protect the files from decompilers/theft or not at all?

3. If PHP/SQL offer no additional protection to .swf files, what steps or software would you recommend (that is easily used by a noob) that can help increase protection (I know nothing's 100%).

Thank you.

[Leftyplayer]

p.s. would anyone recommend the "SWFProtection" software or is it a waste of time/cash? Clearly, pros can hack anything, I'm seeking reasonable levels of protection, as it's all I can do.

[5TonsOfFlax]

1. Shouldn't be any different.
2. You could store the swfs in binary blobs in your db. But this would do nothing to protect them. You still have to get the swf to the client in order to show it, and once they have it it doesn't matter where it came from.
3. Stop worrying about technical protections. Any of several obfuscators will put up enough of a barrier to stop the casual kiddies, and nothing will stop the more determined. Instead, exercise your legal protections: put copyright notices in. Actually go after violators if you care about it. If you don't care, why are you asking?

[Leftyplayer]

Thanks 5TonsOfFlax. That helps. And I do care LOL.

Any thoughts on the SWFProtection software?

[5TonsOfFlax]

I don't know that one in particular.

It would be neat if Joshstrike would weigh in on this topic. I know he's been working on an encryption/obfuscation system which seems to beat the decompilers at least so far.

[ifmi]

Hey,

my friend worte an article about it you can read it here:

http://goo.gl/y1LZr

hope it will help ya.