Cybersecurity Awareness Tip 30: Just Say No to Bloatware

Many software developers and distributors see downloading and installing software as revenue making opportunities. This unwanted and potentially harmful software has come to be known as "bloatware." Most smartphones, tablets, laptops, desktops and other computer come loaded with bloatware. Usually, you can remove preloaded bloatware, though it's not always easy. Microsoft is notorious for installing bloatware - sometimes without asking and without being able to remove it. For 8 days, Microsoft preloaded a password manager with a plugin vulnerability on Windows 10 installations.  CNET's Download.com was a major distributor of software in the early 2010's, when it was caught wrapping downloads in bloatware.

Just Say No to Bloatware

Although you can usually remove bloatware after the fact, why not just say no before it's installed? Bloatware promoters often disguise optional installation through "custom" installation techiques or fake download links.  Some give you the choice to install extras, usually with a convincing pitch and the default selection to install.  Just say, "No."

Resources

• How-To Geek's How to Avoid Installing Junk Programs When Downloading Free Software
• Norton's Bloatware: Why It's a Concern and How to Remove It