A close look at how Oracle installs deceptive software with Java updates

cipher · Jan 22, 2013

A close look at how Oracle installs deceptive software with Java updates:

http://www.zdnet.com/a-close-look-a...ware-with-java-updates-7000010038/?s_cid=e539

BoredOutOfMyMind · Jan 22, 2013

This browser hijack is not new, and is present in many Adobe upgrades also.

gman863 · Jan 22, 2013

I've seen HP hijack web page settings and add bowsers in automatic "updates" as well.

The key word is "automatic" - no chance to decline or opt out of the change(s).

LauraR · Jan 23, 2013

"When you use automatic updater..."

One reason why you should never use auto updater. If you do it manually, you always have the option of unchecking the boxes.

The fact is, these companies produce software that people download without having to pay for it. They need to get revenue somewhere. I am never sure why people complain about free products including things like this...that you can opt out of. I'm not saying Java isn't a security issue, but the browser add-on is how it is helping to keep itself in business.

Caliban · Jan 23, 2013

Good point, Laura.

In a similar vein I recently recommended MajorGeeks to a customer as a file repository and support forum - he complained about the "pop-up advertisements" when he rolled his cursor over certain text keywords. I explained to him that that's how "free" is "free" - something's got to compensate for the web hosting, bandwidth and labor (and that the "pop-ups" disappear if he registers).

In this age of "instant gratification" more and more people are losing sight of the fact that somebody's got to pay the piper...

:confused

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A close look at how Oracle installs deceptive software with Java updates

cipher Major Geek Extraordinaire

BoredOutOfMyMind Picabo, ICU

gman863 MajorGeek

LauraR MajorGeeks Super-Duper Administrator Staff Member

Caliban I don't need no steenkin' title!