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I have just satrted to use bearshare to download so files....after installing Bearshare I read that the programme contains 'spyware' and some people have posted messages of concern on related webpages.
What does spyware do and is it some think to worry about or just part of life !!!
Spyware "calls home" from time to time with information about your surfing habits. Companies use that method for marketing purposes obviously. Spyware can be found in most "free" software programs that you can download from the internet, they have to get the money from somewhere right? Anyways, it's not of great concerns unless a program doesn't tell you it keeps a log of your surfing habits and calls home at regular time intervals which in this case happens without your consent. You can check programs for spyware using the Ad aware utilty and clean up spyware you don't want on your computer.
Name: Bob T. Date: May 4, 2001 at 10:21:22 Pacific
Reply:
BearShare does contain spyware, but there are other programs for connecting to the Gnutella network. Here`s an interesting article on napster alternatives/P2P. http://www.infoanarchy.org/?op=displaystory&sid=2001/3/6/215227/2776
Also, Cult of the Dead Cow will be releasing Peekabooty real soon, and is promising to turn this whole P2P file sharing "upside down".
I was looking for this link. Although it`s not about spyware specifically,it does discuss the privacy issues, especially concerning the new Windows XP operating system and questions if we need really be concerned. http://www.tech-report.com/columns/dissonance/2001q2/privacy/index.x?pg=1
Summary: I agree with morpheus, avoid bearshare, imesh, kazaa and audiogalaxy for spyware. If you want a gnutella client (like bearshare) use limewire. ...
Summary: I like BearShare. It has spyware included but, if you don't use the typical install settings and select custom install you can uncheck the third party software and install just the bearshare program. ...
Summary: bearshare being gnutella is a file sharing. Those are probably just people trying to get files or pinging you. Gnutella generates a lot of traffic. You can probably just set it to deny. Use Limewir...
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