An Integrity Test for Microsoft > didn't WB change the app that showed ads?

didn't WB change the app that showed ads?

The free versions of Adobe Acrobat Reader, QuickTime, RealPlayer, etc., show ads too.

It isn't all adware that anti-spyware / anti-adware products target.

Depending on the anti-adware company, the rules for labelling include installing without permission, or performing functions that aren't revealed to the user (like tracking their surfing to unassociated sites), or secretly installing other products unrelated to carrying out the stated purpose of the main product.

It is really malicious adware or illegal adware that things like Spybot S&D and Ad-aware go after.
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(Virus&Hijacking FAQ + Submit suspected malware + Backups FAQ + Security FAQ TOC)

I'd like to point out that there should be no problem with legit adware, that is, products that simply display banner ads. Advertising is a necessary evil. We should be fine with harmless, passive banner ads. Classifying adware as malware doesn't make sense -- if you don't want to use something that is adware, then choose a different software product. Btw this is also assuming that you get a choice -- drive-by installs are always evil, period.

Our issues begin with spyware, although I suspect a small percentage of the populace wouldn't mind participating in a survey which requires them to send in some data. I have no issues with that either, provided (a) it is explained fully during installation (what you send, who to, how, when, why), and appears in the documentation, and (b) it is opt-in.

No doubt others can come up with points I've missed.

Edit: I hope you noticed the flawed "definition" of adware in the Weatherbug screenshot:

said by Weatherbug:

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Adware is an application that monitors Web surfing behaviour to deliver online ads, and typically offers no other utility...

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