We feel strongly about improving your online experience. We are alarmed by what we believe is a growing disregard for your rights as computer users. We have seen increasing reports of spyware and other applications that can play havoc with your os and ruin your online browsing experience. We do not see this trend reversing itself. In fact, it is growing worse. As a provider of services for users, advertisers, and publishers on the Internet, we feel a responsibility to be proactive about these issues. We have outlined a set of software guidelines

To avoid computer viruses:

1. Get protected. Download at least one of the following anti virus scanners.

2. Don't open attachments. One of the best ways to prevent virus infections is not to open attachments, especially when dangerous viruses are being actively circulated. Even if the e-mail is from a known source, be careful. A few viruses take the mailing lists from an infected computer and send out new messages with its destructive payload attached. Always scan the attached files first for viruses.

3. Scan your system regularly. If you're just loading anti-virus software for the first time, it's a good idea to let it scan your entire system. It's better to start with your PC clean and free of virus problems. Make it a regular habit to scan for viruses weekly.

4. Update your anti-virus software. Once you have virus protection software installed, make sure you keep it up to date with downloadable Virus Definitions. Some anti-virus protection programs have a feature that will automatically link to the Internet and add new virus detection code whenever the software vendor discovers a new threat.

5. When you download files from the Internet, be careful - if such a file contains a virus and you open the file, your computer could become infected. Don't download any file with an .exe file extension, unless it is from a reliable source. Run a virus checker on any files or programs you download from the Internet before you open or unzip it.

6. Stay informed. There are new virus and security alerts almost every day. Keep up-to-date on breaking viruses by consulting the relevant sites on the Internet, such as:

   • Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT). Studies Internet security vulnerabilities, provides incident response services, and publishes security alerts and computer virus information.

   • Microsoft.com. Visit Microsoft.com monthly and make sure you have downloaded and installed the latest security patches for your PC.

   • Security Focus. Computer security clearinghouse: includes a calendar, free tools, forums, industry news, and a library.

Some more Software Guidelines (based on Google's software principles):

1. Software should never trick you into installing it.

2. When an application is installed, it should clearly tell you of its key and significant functions.

3. It should be easy for you to figure out how to disable, delete, or uninstall an application.

4. Applications that alter or change your user experience should be clear they are the reason for those changes.

5. You should know if an application collects or transmits your personal information such as your email or your IP address.

6. Application providers should not allow their products to be bundled with applications that do not meet these guidelines.

Note: If you think you have a deceptive application on your computer, or just want to check to be certain, there are a number of programs that can help you. Spyware Blaster, Spybot Search and Destroy, and LavaSoft's Ad-aware are commonly used. These programs can remove the most common malicious applications.