Is this spyware/adware?

[OmegaBob]

http://toolbar.google.com (http://toolbar.google.com/)

I can tell if it is or isnt. I do like some of the features it offers.

[dangerballs]

I didn't think that there were actually people out there that didn't use the google toolbar.

Its essential.

[zauggru]

The last time I downloaded the toolbar I got a nasty hijack on my computer. I'll never touch it again.

[Virus002]

Just get mozilla if you want a toolbar av_razz.gif

[Braznor]

The google toolbar does behaves as a spyware in certain circumstances, it collects information of your search patterns with your permission. The keyword here is that it explicitly asks for your permission before enabling this feature. This feature of the toolbar can be switched off whenever you feel like so.

Also unlike spyware, the information it sendsback to the Google servers is anonymous i.e it sends back only statistics without identifying you or your computer.

Zauggru, the most probable reason why your computer got infected after this was
installed was because it has reenabled the THIRD PARTY BROWSER EXTENTIONS feature of IE. This allows spyware trojans to attack Internet Explorer on your computer whether you use IE or not. This feature is meant for allowing tools like the Googlebar to be installed, but is misused by spyware to give you their nasty search brs. I would recommend you disable it by going to

TOOLS > INTENET OPTIONS > ADVANCED (tab button) > uncheck the option ENABLE THIRD PARTY BROWSER EXTENTIONS.

I have found that disabling this option also frees IE from weird quirky behaviour at times.

[zauggru]

Thansk Braznor,
I solved the biggest problem by switching to Firefox. IE sucks av_mad.gif

[Rick_browne]

dont use firefoxes searchbox IMO, you can download the google toolbar for it too, just earch for 'google toolbar' on the extension page

[OmegaBob]

Thanks for the info guys!

Final question: if I dislike it, is it easily uninstalled?

[dangerballs]

Originally posted by omegabob:

Final question: if I dislike it, is it easily uninstalled? Two clicks.

I really don't see how you will dislike it. I have found it pretty indispensable. I really couldn't web-surfing without it.

You also might want to look into the Google Desktop Search tool as well. It puts the google engine on your own computer (archiving web pages you visit and documents you have) and when you use Google on the internet, it brings up matches from your desktop. Its perfect for finding an old forum post when you remember the subject, but not the forum or author.

[gorilla325]

what's the toolbar for?
graemlins/av_ph34r.gif

[Jaffa]

Yeah, why would I want it? I just go to google and search from there. And yes, I have Firefox.

[GunJam]

Not only does it allow one click google search, it has an effective popup blocker and an auto fill option, which is awesome. The auto fill allows you to instantly enter info into say an order form info like your name, address, phone#, po box, state, zip, and so on with one click.

Gun

P.s I really like it.

[NO2STARFORCE]

Rather use the Google toolbar than MSN, AOL or .. my favourite.. MyWebSearch =)

[Jaffa]

Well Firefox already has most of those features built in. And I hate those autofill features. Guess I don't need the Google Toolbar then. Good. Less clutter.

[Rick_browne]

the most useful bit i find on it is that it can highlight words you type in

[anthonyX]

the most useful bit i find on it is that it can highlight words you type in That is what I like most about it. Makes complex searchign a bit easier.

[OmegaBob]

Thx again guys! I will try it out this weekend.