Download.com adds bloatware, turns evil
One of the world largest software download sites, Download.com, has been found to add bloatware to their downloads. The files come with a proprietary Download.com installer that tries to push you with toolbars, as well as change home pages and default search engines in addition to installing the software itself.
According to CNET they bundle the software for the good of the users which is hard to imagine. It's not only annoying for the users but violates distribution terms and conditions of some of the software. This is ingeniously bypassed with the terms of service for Download.com.
Currently not all the files are wrapped in the installer but each new version will be. You can identify a bloatware download by the filename beginning with "cnet_".
Some of the software developers have already started to protest. UltraVNC creators have added a warning to their download page encouraging people to avoid Download.com.
