A handful of internet firms have joined together to reduce the spread of
adware and
spyware which is distributed by 'piggybacking' on legitimate downloads.
The companies, including
Yahoo,
AOL and
Verizon, have agreed to
establish industry standards for monitoring and enforcing good behaviour on
websites which offer downloadable software.
A new code of practice, maintained by independent online body
TRUSTe, will ensure that
sites offering downloads state clearly whether the software contains adware or
trackware.
All co-operating sites will be required to inform the user of the types of
advertising that will be displayed, and whether any personal information will be
tracked and collected.
Sites will also have to warn users of any changes to PC settings, and users
will need to opt in before the download can begin. Publishers must offer an easy
uninstall procedure with clear instructions.
The participating companies are due to publish a 'white list' of certified
applications. TRUSTe said that the programme will launch in beta form early next
year.
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