Google releases AdWare guidelinesPosted 20/05/2004
Google has proposed guidelines for internet download software such as advertising ware, browser helpers, or search toolbars.
The guidelines aim to cut down on software makers surreptitiously using AdWare and SpyWare programs that embed themselves on internet users' PCs.
The Google principles state that software should follow common-sense rules of politeness and should admit what is being done, permit itself to be disabled and not do things like leak personal information.
The use of AdWare and SpyWare has already been banned in Utah and the US House of Representatives and the Federal Trade Commission have convened hearings on the issue in the last few weeks.
Google makes products for Windows, like the Google Toolbar and Google Deskbar, that transmit some information about internet behaviour back to its headquarters and its decision to publish guidelines is seen by some as a defence measure, designed to protect its own use of AdWare and SpyWare software.
"Our goal is to encourage industry discussion," said David Krane, Google's director of corporate communications. "We're asking our partners to do the same and have asked for their feedback on these proposed principles."
Some AdWare software can take revenue away from search engines such as Google which serve sponsored ad links. If a user who has certain AdWare software installed on their computer searches for a keyword, a popup graphic or different search results page will appear featuring other sponsored links. © DeHavilland Information Services plc
© 1998-2004 DeHavilland Information Services plc.
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