I hav backed up my copy uk?pal version but i had the same problems and that was down to the disc being worn or damaged.
Repaired it with a disc repair kit (available at most good music/computer stores ) and it solved my problem.
The uk/pal version is not protected but try the site on megagames to be sure.
I also use
http://go.to/psxcplist for a more up to date list.