Lavasoft has issued their official response to user criticism that they pulled WhenU software from their adware detection database without informing users. They aren't clear on whether they were pressured by WhenU, though they do indicate they'll restructure the way they detect spyware threats:

"We realized that the Threat Assessment Chart (TAC) was too rigid and needed to be strengthened so that it would not only better reflect the true purpose of Ad-Aware, but would also improve its reporting capabilities. The new TAC will not only allow us to retain, but will allow us to add more content, as well as highlight improvements in vendor offerings through a detailed color assessment code that will be more obvious to the user and thus provide better information for their decision making."

The company will now include an uninstaller for any application they decide to remove from their detection database. Of course if they're not detecting it, customers won't know WhenU apps are installed; a bit of flawed logic that isn't fully explained.

In response to recent public discussions about the removal of certain programs from the AD-AWARE definition files, Lavasoft has developed a new policy, whereby a stand-alone uninstaller will be made available for individual programs removed from detection, and will remain available until Lavasoft completes a post-removal monitoring and reevaluation process.

The post also announces the creation of a new forum where "public debate can occur between the privacy community and the vendors (who will be welcomed to join and actively participate in open discussions)".

The Lavasoft post feels more like a political speech (complete with color coded warning system) than an apology or solid explanation. Judging from user response, it fails to quell user fears that some form of WhenU pressure played a role in the methodology changes. Spyware researcher Ben Edelman stops by our forums and shares his thoughts on the new detection criteria and why it doesn't go far enough.