Of course, you're right. Spyware should be illegal. That's why lavasoft created their Ad Aware program & gives it away. They don't like it either & are doing something about it.
Steve Gibson, whose website is
http://grc.com , is a great source of info on how to counteract privacy invading software & protecting your system.
These folks & others are working to help make the internet safer & more enjoyable. However, everyone is ultimately responsible for learning all they can about managing, maintaining, & protecting their own systems - then following through with proper actions.
Have fun but stay safe. Happy surfing.
FReegards,
RebelTex
Thanks, I've known of grc.com for a few years and also have run ZA for several years. The self-tests at GRC are quite eye-opening. The more people that are aware, the better. BUMP.