Thursday, February 03, 2005

Netflix advertisements are part of spyware

I sent the following message to public relations at Netflix via email on January 27:

"A Web site named pcpitstop.com alleges that Netflix uses a business called Gator/Claria to advertise its service. This business allegedly installs spyware or adware (unwelcome software) called GAIN, on Web users' computers, against their full knowledge and consent. Can you verify or confirm for me whether this is true? If you disagree that GAIN is spyware or adware, could you explain to me why? Can you confirm or deny the nature of your relationship with Gator/Claria?"

I haven't received a reply.

According to PCPitStop.com, Netflix is one of the top 20 advertisers utilizing Claria to distribute their ads. They obtained the information from documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

This tidbit about Claria comes via the L.A. Times:

"The businesses most often accused of distributing spyware, including privately held Claria Corp., WhenU Inc. and 180Solutions Inc., say they are providing legitimate "adware" services to customers who approved the installation. But their disclosures are often misleading or buried: A recent Claria license ran for more than 60 electronic pages, first mentioning the phrase "pop-up" on page 18."

Maybe a Netflix employee who reads my blog can help me clear up this issue.

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