Lavasoft to bundle the Ask Toolbar

[muckshifter]

Earlier this week, Lavasoft confirmed in a lengthy post that it is in negotiations with IAC to bundle the Ask Toolbar. The rationalization for Lavasoft is that by doing this bundle, they have the opportunity to work with IAC in making real change in toolbar distribution. This would ostensibly benefit the community.

I have no beef with Lavasoft. Pre-KIS/NOD, I used AdAware to remove infections from systems, and recognize and respect them them for their tremendous contributions to making the Internet safer.

Nevertheless, IAC is a company with a past (and spyware expert Ben Edelman adds some additional thoughts on their current status).

In my view, there is only one reason to bundle a toolbar, and that’s for money. Getting into bed with someone in the hopes of making them more moral … I’m not so sure. So Lavasoft, please don’t take offense, but I ain't used your program for over 12 months, I ain't about to give in now.

Readers ... your comments are welcome.

 

[Electronics & Photo Fan]

CCleaner have been offering the option to install a toolbar with their product, I say offering, the option is checked by default...

I haven't stopped using CCleaner, and if push came to shove and Lavasoft did forcibly install a toolbar, I'd just uninstall it after.

 

[Ian]

Fair enough in a freeware application as long as there is an option - such as CCleaner like you say EPF. If it was installed forcibly though, I wouldn't touch it

 

[Adywebb]

If Lavasoft don't give an option not to install I won't be touching it ever again either..

 

[floppybootstomp]

I haven't used AdAware for around six months now, I really don't like the new interface.

If the Toolbar was a choice I'd consider using it again but like most of the members here if it was installed by default with no choice then Lavasoft can go whistle.

I'm using Antivir; Spybot S & D and Windows Defender. Also a Hardware Firewall and Common Sense.