Fuss over the Weather web bug by AOL and other software

  • Thread starter Thread starter Jens
  • Start date Start date
J

Jens

I read about the fuss that AOL is making because there is
a weather bug that they install so that they can identify
your location.

By definition, it transmits out information that I may or
may not want sent out. I am sorry to see Microsoft
rolling over so quickly, promising to remove that
signature. Realit is that any information sent out from a
machine should be at the behest and with the full
knowledge of the user. Giant should in fact trigger on it
but explain that it may be harmless and identify its use.
This way the user can make their own decision as to
whether the bug stays or goes.

Go figure!!

Jens
 
The unfortunate fact is that WeatherBug is a reputable and
useful piece of software, one's experience is completely
dependent upon where it was obtained. I would hope that
the AWS would somehow flag the binaries being distributed
by reputable means, i.e. AOL, direct download from the
AWS, or local TV stations, to distinguish them from the
versions being distributed by our mailcious spyware
friends.

Personally I prefer sticking my head out the window to
check the weather, but to each their own.
 
Programs what watch what you are doing by default, ex:
weatherbug, google toolbar, etc. should be treated as
spyware and removed. These programs are NG and should be
treated as such.
 
Slightly off-topic, but if MSAS could identify and remove
*all* AOL apps from a PC, that would be nice! ;-)
(sorry, just my sarcastic view after seeing AOL appear on
a bunch of corporate laptops and becoming a pain in the
rear)
 
Back
Top