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Alert

Dangerous software from CNET marketplace

May 3, 2013 8:30AM PDT

I just bought the Sim Aquarium 3D software on May 3rd deal. CNET put software on my machine to download the software when I clicked on their link to get the product immediately. It installed additional software on my computer (a toolbar from a company named Conduit) and tried to hijack my browser. Immediately started getting all kinds of pop-ups on different web pages as I was browsing. Changed my default browser setting from IE10. I feel totally ripped offed and will no longer be trusting CNET for any software.

Discussion is locked

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Bundled Software From CNET
May 4, 2013 12:42PM PDT

CNET has been my go to for several years. I trust the reviews and respect their very knowledgeable staff. As an IT professional I have used and recommended CNET Download as a safe place to download trial versions, open source, freeware and shareware without the worry of having your computer "hijacked" by unwanted software and browser add-ons.

At first, as long as you chose custom installation, CNET made it clear what these programs were and allowed you to deselect. As of late, I have downloaded programs and found myself removing bloatware and browser extensions and toolbars that seem to just reappear until the source program is located and removed.

Bottom line:
I no longer trust CNET for downloads.
I no longer recommend CNET for downloads.

I still respect CNET reviews and expertise.

I hope CNET reviews its own Download site and gives it the appropriate 1 star it deserves and then
changes its practices.

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Agreed!
May 10, 2013 11:24AM PDT

I also trusted Cnet for years, now to download, you must install thier installer stub software. You have to be extremely careful about the advertisement junk that is bundled with legit software (WHY..WHY do I need a reciept printing tool bar with my ftp client software?).
Why have you done this? Now where can we go for trusted quality downloads?

Cnet, you blew it. I will no longer use or reccomend this site. Many of my clients are newbies and easily tricked into downloading this CRAP that you bundle with the download.

I just want to download a free ftp client from someone reliable, I don't need a stupid reciept printer, I don't want to change my homepage, I don't want a toolbar, I don't need more spyware and adware to slow my already overburdened computer. I don't feel like having to run a spyware or adware scan everytime I download a legit file.

Just give us back the direct download link and quit trying to be like the SCAM sites!

Call me when you return to your senses, meanwhile, GOODBYE.