Beware the Stealth Installers!

Almost all of us have some software installed on our computers that periodically checks for updates. Common applications such as Java, Firefox and Adobe Acrobat all have the capacity to detect your connection to the internet and check for software updates. While this is generally a good practice, it has one major drawback. When you see the notice that updates are available and choose to download and install the new version, be careful to read all the installation windows that appear. If you just click through them without checking each window, you may end up with additional applications that you do not want and that slow down your computer or interfere with your normal activities. For example, when you update Java the default update includes the Google tool bar for internet explorer and the Google Desktop. While neither of these applications are particularly harmful, they do take computing power and slow down your computer.

For the most security follow these steps, when you see a software update notice.

Before you click the box to download and install the update, read the notice to make sure it is from a package you recognize and that you use. If not, cancel the installation and call the IT group for assistance. We can check the validity of the software and help you to either remove it or update it.
When the installation starts, examine each window for checkboxes, disclaimers or licenses. If you see something you don’t understand or that authorizes access to your computer, cancel the installation.
At any time during the process if you are unsure whether to proceed cancel the installation and call the IT group for information and assistance. You can always restart the installation later.
After the installation look for any new shortcuts on your desktop. If you see something you don’t recognize, contact the IT group. Deleting a desktop item does not remove the software from your system.

Last updated: 2/07/07