A US appeals panel has challenged federal rules requiring certain video devices to have technology that prevents copying digital television programmes and distributing them over the Internet, reports Associated Press.

US circuit judge Harry Edwards told the Federal Communications Commission it crossed the line requiring the new anti-piracy technology in next-generation television devices.

The technology, known as the broadcast flag, will be required after 1 July for televisions equipped to receive new digital signals, as well as many PCs and VCR-type recording devices. It would permit entertainment companies to designate programs to prevent viewers from copying shows or distributing them over the Internet.