p2pnet - rss feed: Ghosts in our machines
The CDT (Center for Democracy and Technology) wants Internet users to send in their experiences with specific ’spyware’ apps so it can collect the most "egregious cases" and file a complaint with the FTC (Federal Trade Commission).
‘Spyware’ can mean apps that track where you go online, and what you do when you when you get there. It can mean web cookies. It can mean keystroke loggers and programs that allow other computers to tap directly into yours - with or without your permission.
"CDT believes that the US Federal Trade Commission has jurisdiction over companies who entered into shaky End User License Agreements (EULAs) with consumers and then won’t let them leave," it says here.
"We want to collect stories; try out and catalog some of the more egregious cases for ourselves; and then file complaints with the FTC on behalf of everyone who complained."
‘Spyware,’ ’snoopware,’ or ‘tresspassware’ are, "annoying and intrusive programs loaded on your computer by a variety of means," it points out. "Once there, they can collect information, use computing resources and/or resist un-installation."
The CDT has also released Ghosts in Our Machines: Background and Policy Proposals on the ‘Spyware’ Problem, that examines types of spyware; suggests policy solutions to the problem, including legislation and better enforcement of current laws; and offers tips to consumers who want to take steps to avoid spyware on their computers.
