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The Honolulu Advertiser
Posted on: Tuesday, July 9, 2002

BYTE MARKS
Beware of nosy spyware

By Burt Lum

Is it freeware or is it spyware? That's the question people need to ask themselves more often than not.

While I have been a proponent of downloading free software, I would be remiss if I did not offer a word of caution. Some software downloads include imbedded programs that provide information back to advertisers without your knowledge. This information can then be used to solicit you with annoying quantities of spam.

The concept of spyware involves the downloading of software that contains code that runs on your workstation. Unbeknownst to you, your PC is now a server communicating back to its originator. The data transmitted includes information on you as well as tracking information on where you have been.

A well-documented example of this was RealNetworks' (news.com.com/2100-1001-232766.html) violation of its privacy policy. In my case, I was quite disturbed to find RealDownload appear on my Windows laptop and launch pop-up ad windows every time I downloaded a file.

Spyware proponents have been around for several years. Fortunately, the fight against spyware comes from various fronts. While reading Steve Gibson's excellent reference on spyware software (grc.com/optout.htm) I was pointed to LavaSoft and its anti-spyware software, called AD-aware 5.0. This free download (believe me, it is safe and free of spyware) will scan your system and detect known spyware code. Much like a virus scan, it will identify suspicious codes and allow you to delete them from your system. To my complete surprise, my scan detected six items including code from well-known companies such as DoubleClick. These were all deleted without hesitation.

The spyware problem continues to grow, and with it grows the database of known spyware code. A good resource to find out more about spyware and related intrusive software called adware is Spy Checker at www.spychecker.com. This site also offers links to resources on spyware profiles, articles and discussion groups.

For better or for worse, the Internet continues to be a reflection of our human nature. ;-)

Burt Lum is one click away at burt@brouhaha.net.