A method and system for preventing unauthorized recording of media content in an iTunes.TM. environment. Embodiment of the method begins by activating a compliance mechanism in response to receiving media content at a client system. The media content is received from a content provider providing content in a format compatible with an iTunes.TM. media service. Also, the client system has a media content presentation application that is capable of handling the media content operable thereon and coupled to the compliance mechanism. The method continues by controlling a data output path carrying the media content of the client system with the compliance mechanism. Thereafter, the method directs the media content to a custom media device coupled that is coupled to the compliance mechanism via the data output path. In this way, the embodiment of the method is capable of selectively restricting output of the media content.