New computers and AIM come with spyware?

SpywareShooterSpywareShooter 127.0.0.1
edited December 2004 in Science & Tech
I just got another computer, an HP Pavillion a706n. *Note that it is still not on the Internet. After I went through all the setup instructions, I was prompted to install Weatherbug? Why would HP be shipping computers with spyware already on them? Or was it BestBuy? The first computer I got from BestBuy (4 years ago) had some junk toolbar called eBar, I believe (it was part of Emachines, not spyware, but annoying), even though we asked them to remove it. Also, I have noticed that AIM comes with Weatherbug and Viewpoint now. Why is so much legit stuff coming with spyware bundled? Now I know those programs aren't the most vicious of spyware, but still, a brand new computer should be COMPLETELY clean.

Comments

  • DexterDexter Vancouver, BC Canada
    edited December 2004
    It is probably the AIM, pre-installed. Most major computer manufacturers do a deal with one of the major Internet Service Providers to pre-install their software to entice the user to use their service. The ISP pays the manufacturer, probably as a percentage of new signups (the installation will probably include a referrer identification), so it is easy money for the manufacturer. Then AIM bundles WeatherBug, as they are being paid by that companies to bundle their software with AIM. Everyone takes a nickel or two along the way, and the new computer user gets a system bloated down with more crap than they need....

    That is why experienced users prefer to build their own boxes...you have more control over what goes on in the first place, and you do not have to spend a bunch of time cleaning up that kind of crap.

    Dexter...
  • primesuspectprimesuspect Beepin n' Boopin Detroit, MI Icrontian
    edited December 2004
    Have General Keebler pop in here and tell you about the MyWay bar that came pre-installed on his parent's dell....
  • SpywareShooterSpywareShooter 127.0.0.1
    edited December 2004
    "It is probably the AIM, pre-installed."

    AIM was not preinstalled on my new computer. The only AOL related stuff was the crappy "Easy Internet Signup" programs which I am going to get rid of once I get the machine online with Comcast.
  • 552211552211
    edited December 2004
    "a brand new computer should be COMPLETELY clean"

    That will be the day!


    Weatherbug claims to have over 32 million registered users. That's allot of spying! :eek:
  • SpywareShooterSpywareShooter 127.0.0.1
    edited December 2004
    Yes, and they also claim to be spyware free... just like many other spyware-infested programs.
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