Spyware and adware are currently two of the top irritants facing
internet users.
Spyware is the term for software that is used to collect
information about an individual or organisation without their
knowledge. Often malicious in nature, it can be deposited as an
e-mail attachment or as a website download and used to harvest
passwords or other confidential data.
Adware tends to be less malicious, generating adverts matched to
browsing habits; but it can still be an invasion of privacy and a
great annoyance for users.
TRUSTe hopes that the Trusted Download Program will set out
market incentives for adware and other software companies to tell
consumers what is in downloadable software, and obtain their
consent prior to download.
"With consumers downloading more and more software, it's vital
to give people real control over what they will allow on their
computers," said Fran Maier, executive director and president of
TRUSTe. "Through our Trusted Download Program we will provide a
clear, actionable set of standards and an effective method of
monitoring and enforcing those standards. This extends TRUSTe's
mission to build trust between individuals and organisations
online."
According to TRUSTe, the Trusted Download Program works by
publishing a whitelist of certified applications. The whitelist
will be used by companies – starting with program sponsors such as
Yahoo!, AOL, Computer Associates, CNET Networks and Verizon – as a
tool to make business decisions about advertising, partnering or
distributing software products.
To be placed on the whitelist, adware and trackware must
prominently disclose the types of advertising that will be
displayed, personal information that will be tracked, and user
settings that may be altered.
They must also obtain user opt-in consent for the download. An
easy uninstall with clear instructions must be provided, and
advertisements must be labelled with the name of the adware
program.
A trial of the program is expected to take place early next
year.
