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Spyware Analysis of P2P Software

Posted by CmdrTaco on from the dark-side-to-the-dark-side dept.

rhizome writes "Benjamin Edelman, a PhD candidate in Economics and a Law student at Harvard, has analyzed the hidden (or not) additions to a user's machine when they install some of the major Windows P2P clients. He analyzes the length and readabilty of their licenses, what is revealed or hidden in the software's installer and includes screenshots for illustration. Clear, concise and eye-opening."

2 of 200 comments (clear)

  1. I've got a solution to spyware! by PsychicX · · Score: 0, Troll

    Buy your software, movies, and games! I must be a genius!

  2. This Message Brought To You By LimeWire by mr.newt · · Score: 0, Troll

    Seriously, several people have pointed out that the guy was paid by LimeWire to do this research, followed quickly by "But he was completely honest!" I call BS. There are more ways to do a dishonest study then to actually fake the results. One of those ways is to be selective on your input. You'll notice many comments here along the lines of "But, where is my favorite P2P client X? It doesn't have malware either!" Connect the dots. This guy reviewed LimeWire (no malware!) and four other conveniently chosen P2P programs (malware!) for the specific reason of making LimeWire look good.

    Give me a break.