Cnet/Download.com is a very popular tech site that over the years has given products bad names by installing toolbars without their permission. Now there are 2 things wrong with that idea 1. The software companies don't include them CNET has the decision to do it which is why they are practically on every major download now CNET does probably pay them a percentage or maybe not. 2. You are not forced to download anything and I will elaborate on that after the jump. CNET is a safe and trusted site, and I am not trying to insult them in anyway all I am trying to say is you (the reader) need to be careful when downloading from there.
CNET Gave Me Malware!!!!
No it did not you gave it to yourself when you are in the download screen you uncheck the box and then click agree to the terms and service.. HELLO that are you agreeing to download that toolbar regardless of it being unchecked. You have to click deny agreement or decline or something along those lines that is the only way to completely avoid downloading of toolbars. So follow the steps below on the necessary tools that you can use to remove the toolbars and their effects. If they are followed then it should be as if they were never there.
How do I remove CNET Malware?
That answer is simple download a tool called Iobit Uninstaller, and it has an option to remove toolbars completely. Or do the steps above to avoid getting malware in the first place. This is technically a form of Spyware/Adware because it collects information about you that is not passwords but browsing activity. So if you have downloaded malware just uninstall it through the Iobit Uninstaller which is linked to download it. If you still feel that you are not safe I recommend you download Spybot search and destroy or Malwarebytes.
Can I Still Trust CNET?
Yes CNET is a very reliable website and in no way was i trying to make them seem like the bad guys most of my software is downloaded from there and I am very active on the site. I just want you to remember that they are doing it for money. It is not cheap hosting thousands of programs and having millions of downloads their servers are expensive, and they use those optional toolbars to help pay for the program. So CNET is not trying to do you any harm it is a business and if they are going to continue offering the free service they need a way to pay for it. Now granted CNET probably makes more money than they know what to do with they are still not to be in question as far as your security and privacy.
Why Do Companies Use CNET?
The answer is actually very simple it is cheaper and easier. Why would a company like Avast! want to set up their own download servers when they can use Cnet who can make money and is already well established and a very trusted company. So CNET basically has the backing of those companies that use it so don't think that the publishers are to blame it is the hosts.
