A configuration is provided which improves scrambling processing of content and eliminates unauthorized use of content. Scramble rules which differ for each content are used for content scrambling processing. For example, in the event of using shuffling processing, various shuffle states are specified as scramble rules. In the event of using Exclusive-OR processing, a value applicable to EXOR is specified as the scramble rule. Also, in the event of using rotation processing, a shift amount is specified as the scramble rule. In the event of using 32 shuffle elements in shuffling processing, 32! different shuffle states, that is to say, 32! different scramble rules can be specified. Also, the values for EXOR or the rotation shift amount can be set as various values, and many scramble rules can be set.