Why do CD's have that awful industrial strength plastic on them?

Question

I get so frustrated opening up a new CD. I often think, what do old people who hope to enjoy their new Lawrence Welk or Frank Sinatra CDs do to get them open.

Answer 1

I assume to keep people from stealing them, however, since most people get their music from on-line now...

Answer 2

The stores will tell you it is there to protect the CD from being stolen. However, a thief is prepared for stealing and will bring a razor blade to quickly open the CD. I guess it attracts a little more attention to the thief if there is a pile of shredded plastic at his feet but it is not really going to slow him down. They also have tools that can quickly take that stuff off and cut the seals around the jewel case. I guess the stores still bother to do it because it is better than doing nothing.