As an independent I have no problem acknowledging a person no matter if they are Democrat or Republican. I'd like to recognize Senator Barbara Boxer for joining in the introduction of the Spy Block Act, S. 687, into the U.S. Senate (originally introduced by U.S. Senators Conrad Burns (R-Mont.) and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) in Feb.). Usually I don't have much good to say about B. Boxer but on this she is taking the correct path.From her news letter: The Spy Block Act makes it unlawful for a person to install software on a computer without the consent of the authorized operator and prohibits false or misleading representations about the installation of software that cannot be uninstalled or disabled through usual program removal functions. It also prohibits the installation of unauthorized software that collects personal information about computer users or the installation of advertisement software without a means of identifying the software source.
The name "Spy Block" is actually an acronym for Software Principles Yielding Better Levels Of Consumer Knowledge and, as far as I have read, simply makes it illegal to offer a program, free or paid, that has imbedded auxiliary programs without the users consent.
Until this becomes law and before you download that software type in the name of that program into Google first. If there have been any complaints about spy ware or ad ware connected with the program it will probably show up. If you're not too familiar with the issue you can read this summary from the Center for Democracy & Technology (CDT).
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As I've said in other posts I have no problem bringing a good deed to the public attention if it is something that will benefit the country as a whole - irregardless of the political party. I think that makes me a tad more objective in my outlook than extremists, don't you?
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