Avast WEBforum
Consumer Products => Avast Free Antivirus / Premium Security (legacy Pro Antivirus, Internet Security, Premier) => Topic started by: grovegal on January 09, 2014, 11:20:29 AM
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Adding this Safe Price plugin or whatever it is to my browser without asking me is not a cool thing to do. Shame on you Avast. I am on a product that I sell on Amazon and lo and behold, this plugin tells me who is selling it cheaper on ebay. Gee great thanks, you just sent customers away from my product!
Whoever's bright idea this was did not consider the ramifications of hurting your customer's business - let alone explain this was being added and how to get it off.
There's another topic here with instructions - these instructions do NOT work for me. I have 2 choices when I X out - disable for 24 hours on Amazon, disable 24 hours on all sites. http://forum.avast.com/index.php?topic=143068.0
Someone please tell me how to disable this on my browser PERMANENTLY
I've used Avast for six years. Unless you stop this plugin that interferes with my business, I will never use Avast again.
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It's not avast fault your products are priced higher than your competitors, you'll have to become more competitive.
The whole idea of Safe Price is to save customers from being ripped off, no different to sites like Wotif or Trip Adviser which also find the cheapest prices for customers.
Personally I haven't seen Safe Price but if you cant disable via the avast online security settings then try right clicking the toolbar at top of your browser or you might be able to remove it by using the change feature in Programs and Features.
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Or you could use some good old business accumen and use the tool to your advantage ;) ;) ;)
Knowing your competitors , their prices and business methods is the key to success.
Instead of moaning about this tool, why not think about how you can use it to improve your business?
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Hi just because it is cheaper from eBay does not make it better. I would sooner buy it from a local store and if you have problems they will give you a new part or sort it out, that is worth more than saving 20 $. I guess they will include a word processor in Avast soon.
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I prefer to buy locally to support businesses in my hometown.
But if I can drive twenty five miles to save $20 to $25 then so be it.
People like to save money. After all it's their money.
@Hammey If it's the exact same product then the quality remains the same and the consumer saves money
by shopping elsewhere. Competition has a price. :)
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I still do not understand why is this "plugin" included in Avast. What is the next step? Plugin for car dealers?
Your product was developed (I believe) for protection against intrusion/harm from internet and removal viruses from computers. Now explain what security enhancement this n"plugin" adding to ANY computer?
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I still do not understand why is this "plugin" included in Avast. What is the next step? Plugin for car dealers?
Your product was developed (I believe) for protection against intrusion/harm from internet and removal viruses from computers. Now explain what security enhancement this n"plugin" adding to ANY computer?
I believe the plugin not only points to cheapest but also to safe and reputable purchases.
The plugin should be disabled by default, if you don't want it then don't use it.
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@craigb, really? How about, those "safe and reputable" companies are just paying Avast to do marketing for them? I believe that's main reason why they that plugins is there. I know lots of compenies are trying same things, but you are the first to explain it this way. LOL
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@craigb, really? How about, those "safe and reputable" companies are just paying Avast to do marketing for them? I believe that's main reason why they that plugins is there. I know lots of compenies are trying same things, but you are the first to explain it this way. LOL
You obviously have no idea what you are talking about and each and every further post you place makes less sense every time, I'm done with you so goodbye ::)
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@craigb, I'm one big ear. Explain all those things I do not understand. I like to learn something new.
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craigb really?
"You obviously have no idea what you are talking about and each and every further post you place makes less sense every time, I'm done with you so goodbye "
And you are a representative for Avast support?
I come to this forum because I am experiencing problems with one of your products and am looking for solutions and explanations. Been a long user of Avast, and my problem now of 9.0.2011 not installing on XP SP3 was answered with "reinstall it" Gee! And now I see your answer to another user! Keep it up and you may not have any users to "help"!
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jldjs maybe you need to follow some of kodl's posts to see why he was give that reply then you might not butt into matters that are not of your concern ::), on top of that I'm an avast user just like you :o
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My mistake on you being an Avast Support rep, therefore my apologies to you.
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craigb, I'm still want to learn from you. Please explain what I do not understand.
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craigb, I'm still want to learn from you. Please explain what I do not understand.
Everything has already been explained so maybe go back and re-read and my former statement still holds true and I don't wish to discuss anything further with you.
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craigb, I'm still want to learn from you. Please explain what I do not understand.
Everything has already been explained so maybe go back and re-read and my former statement still holds true and I don't wish to discuss anything further with you.
Just ignore further comments, your just fanning the flames and making it worse so to speak.
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Thanx for your reply. That's what I expected.
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just noticed this little gem of tripe hidden in the new version
What utter and complete BS avast, who the hell are you to suggest to people that the race to the bottom in pricing is good for ANYONE?
who is really supporting this module, how much did ebay and walmart pay you to mislead consumers with this complete rubbish?
ooh, it just told me its a better value to use free avast and never spend good money on a paid version
sound advise actually...
really guys, stick to what you know because every one of these stupid ancillary products robs the focus from your flagship product and robs your customers of quality
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Yah, doesn't sound like anything I would use or have enabled but then again I haven't tried it yet so who knows. No big deal though, I mean there's more to life, right? ::)
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just noticed this little gem of tripe hidden in the new version
What utter and complete BS avast, who the hell are you to suggest to people that the race to the bottom in pricing is good for ANYONE?
who is really supporting this module, how much did ebay and walmart pay you to mislead consumers with this complete rubbish?
ooh, it just told me its a better value to use free avast and never spend good money on a paid version
sound advise actually...
really guys, stick to what you know because every one of these stupid ancillary products robs the focus from your flagship product and robs your customers of quality
Why did you install it?
Simple answer ....... always read the release notes and use a CUSTOM install.
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I believe Safe Price is mentioned (as a new feature) in the window that appears after the update is installed (and loaded, i.e. after reboot).
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Hi. New to this forum but have been using avast for many years now.
I had been getting complaints about the price shopping bar and at first thought our systems got a nasty malware infection. I surprised to learn it was a part of the avast browser add-in...remember the one that was less invasive and mostly just sat at the top bar as a little icon until you decided to click on it...
I found the OP post interesting because it was an issue that I feel is valid and wouldn't have thought about. Although, I feel that issue to be a valid SECONDARY concern.
I felt the need to sign up and post to this thread because I wanted to talk more about what I feel should be the PRIMARY concern. For years we trusted avast and that trust built up over time. Even with some of their big goofs: like the recent fix they seem to have done that now prevents the avast web/email shields from blocking outgoing mail ports in MS Outlook, or the one that really caused a big headache here...remember a few years ago when the avast program found a few MS files and dlls to be dangerous so it would quarantine or delete them, but we ended up realizing that they were legitimate files needed to make Windows Update work...to this day I think they never actually fixed that...but I digress...
Shame on you avast! What you did was sneaky. I'm a person that generally reads terms/conditions, etc. to try to sift out the junk...even though most people just click accept. Avast, you were NEVER authorized to add the intrusive price shopping feature...which is flawed btw. (We were looking at 4TB WD hard drives and recommendations were given for a 50% cheaper site...turns out they were for 3 TB drives...) This price feature was put on apparently through some automatic program and/or definitions update. Therefore, it was never presented to anyone to properly review, let alone understand what the revision now did...
Adding even more salt to the wound is the apparent lack of disabling the feature forever, let alone an option to completely remove (so far as I presently can tell...)
Avast, it takes a long time to build up a reputable trustworthy relationship, ESPECIALLY when you are in the business of stopping spam, viruses, trojans, malware, and anything under the heading of intrusive, system security compromising, and unsolicited.
You Avast, have just forever tarnished your reputation and have become the very thing that people wanting your program have sought to put an end to...
While I look for an alternative, (maybe I'll give AVG another try), I must say that computer and more specifically internet speed have greatly increased and improved after removing your program.
Thank you for the time and "protection" that you've given us during the good years.
~Patrick
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itsthexypat you can disable Safeprice through the AOS ( Browser Protection ) settings, you do have a choice to not use it.
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I have Chrome, and I do not find any options to disable it ANYWHERE. I have really looked everywhere, in the browser (this is AOS settings?), and the Avast in the extentions page, there is no option to disable it, not even mentioned! The same goes for the Avast program settings and so on. AND the same goes for Uninstall feature of Avast, where you can decide what tools or components you actually want. And Safe Price is not mentioned at all. I really don't understand what Avast is doing, frustrating indeed. Im tired of the safe price popup, very annoying if you'd ask me.
Does anyone know what to do? I guess uninstalling everything is the only option left, but I can't do that, just bought a 2 year renewal of their service.
Help?
Oh yes, and by the way, the disable option was not on the question mark option either. From this screenshot that someone posted, it was GONE.
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I have Chrome, and I do not find any options to disable it ANYWHERE. I have really looked everywhere, in the browser (this is AOS settings?), and the Avast in the extentions page, there is no option to disable it, not even mentioned! The same goes for the Avast program settings and so on. AND the same goes for Uninstall feature of Avast, where you can decide what tools or components you actually want. And Safe Price is not mentioned at all. I really don't understand what Avast is doing, frustrating indeed. Im tired of the safe price popup, very annoying if you'd ask me.
Does anyone know what to do? I guess uninstalling everything is the only option left, but I can't do that, just bought a 2 year renewal of their service.
Help?
Oh yes, and by the way, the disable option was not on the question mark option either. From this screenshot that someone posted, it was GONE.
From the uninstall feature choose change and untick Browser Protection.
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If you click on the AOS icon (wherever that is located in chrome - I don't use chrome), that would open some AOS details about the page you are on. At the bottom of that there is a Settings option, that opens a new tab with the AOS settings - Safe Price is at the bottom of that page.
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Im so appalled !! What the heck is this i said to myself!! Im infected!! But oh wait! Its my antivirus vendor who has infected my system with this crap! A vendor i trusted managed to sneak at the minimum a controversial feature and enabled it as default knowing there maybe privacy implications as well as a ton of upset users!
This is uncalled for and not acceptable in any way avast!!! Are you kidding me!!!??
Im not a free user, i paid for my copy of Avast internet security and it should NOT be suggesting products or hijacking my browser in ANY WAY!!!!
Avast are you becoming the Infection!?
Stop behaving sleazy! Especially to your paying customers who have supported you!!
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I signed up just to voice my opinion on this as well.
>:( >:( >:(
At first I thought for sure spyware had made it through onto my web browser. This is RIDICULOUS for an anti-virus program to attach itself (like a virus) to your web browser! Then to make things worse they only give you the option to disable it for 24 hours?! This is BS plain and simple. I've been using Avast for several years and have recommended it to many clients whom I've repaired and built custom computers for.
If they don't give us a way to remove this for good I will switch back to AVG.
I don't need my anti-virus program telling me where I should be shopping just as I don't want my local butcher telling me which stocks I should be investing in.
Avast, stick to the game at hand and collect our data quietly in the background like everyone else does...
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If you read my last post (http://forum.avast.com/index.php?topic=144408.msg1076569#msg1076569 (http://forum.avast.com/index.php?topic=144408.msg1076569#msg1076569)), they have a way to remove this or you can completely remove the AOS browser add-on.
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I signed up just to voice my opinion on this as well.
Ditto - I've just joined up to complain about this as well... as I've just made the mistake of upgrading the Avast Program to 2014.9.0.2016
We use Firefox 28.0 and there is *no* way of disabling Safe Price for longer than 24 hours, the only option is to disable AOS completely - the option that was at the bottom left of the black pop-over when you clicked on the '?' at the top has now gone!
I've been using Avast since I got fed up with Norton slugging Windows98 over a decade ago and I've been recommending it to everyone ever since then.
BUT recent experiences have NOT been good - first with Avast v9 crippling Windows XP at the end of 2013 and then the initial invasion of Safe Price (which I could at least turn off) , but this latest move might make me look for alternative products.
A very disappointed long term user.
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We use Firefox 28.0 and there is *no* way of disabling Safe Price for longer than 24 hours, the only option is to disable AOS completely - the option that was at the bottom left of the black pop-over when you clicked on the '?' at the top has now gone!
If you click on the avast! Online Security icon to get the sliding panel, at the bottom of that panel is a link to Settings. Go into Settings, and you will see a list of options with checkmarks in front. The very last option (you may have to scroll to see it) is
SafePrice Receive SafePrice shopping recommendations on relevant sites.
Uncheck that line and click on "Save".
This setting should stick until the cookie used by avast! Online Security is deleted.
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We use Firefox 28.0 and there is *no* way of disabling Safe Price for longer than 24 hours, the only option is to disable AOS completely - the option that was at the bottom left of the black pop-over when you clicked on the '?' at the top has now gone!
If you click on the avast! Online Security icon to get the sliding panel, at the bottom of that panel is a link to Settings. Go into Settings, and you will see a list of options with checkmarks in front. The very last option (you may have to scroll to see it) is
SafePrice Receive SafePrice shopping recommendations on relevant sites.
Uncheck that line and click on "Save".
This setting should stick until the cookie used by avast! Online Security is deleted.
Unless Safe Price is activated then I can't get the AOS icon to do anything, there is no sliding panel.
I think I may have got it disabled now - When I restarted Firefox it brought up the Avast page you get after an Avast program update and it offered me an internal link to various settings, e.g. blocking tracking and analytics so I have turned Safe Price off in there now.
I never keep any cookies so I will see what happens at the next restart.
Safe Price needs to be easier to disable and access to the AOS settings in Firefox needs to be simpler.
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People, Have a look through recent topics and note how many deal with one aspect or another of the AOS extension (particularly in Firefox) as opposed to the anti-virus proper.
AOS is a crock. Disable the extension. Problems solved. As an extension it just tries to do too much, and apart from its own bugs it seems to conflict with quite a few other popular extensions.
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We use Firefox 28.0 and there is *no* way of disabling Safe Price for longer than 24 hours, the only option is to disable AOS completely - the option that was at the bottom left of the black pop-over when you clicked on the '?' at the top has now gone!
If you click on the avast! Online Security icon to get the sliding panel, at the bottom of that panel is a link to Settings. Go into Settings, and you will see a list of options with checkmarks in front. The very last option (you may have to scroll to see it) is
SafePrice Receive SafePrice shopping recommendations on relevant sites.
Uncheck that line and click on "Save".
This setting should stick until the cookie used by avast! Online Security is deleted.
I've tried doing this (using the newest version of Mozilla Firefox) and when I click on settings it doesn't nothing. It's greyed out too.
Here's a screenshot.
(http://www.videogameobsession.com/photodump/temp/AvastOnlineSecurity.png)
Why is there no way to do this directly from the Avast program?
They really should have asked you if you want this from the start instead of forcing it on us and leaving it up to us to figure out how to remove it.
So it seems my only options now are to ditch Avast and go back to AVG or remove Avast Online Security and take my chances (nope!).
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Just so it's clear, AOS(Avast Online Security) is just a Browser Plugin/Addon and is NOT the main core function of Avast Anti Virus.
The security issue is minimal at best and really will not put your PC at risk if Uninstalled or Disabled. :)
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So, like others I signed up just because this "feature" bothered me so much. Getting occasional popups for their other services is one thing, but popping up on my third party sites just because someone is selling something that appears to be the same product (except used or refurbished maybe) is exactly the intrusive activity from malware that I want Avast to protect me from. This is exactly the reason why I stopped using McAfee and moved to Avast!
If I want to buy from Amazon, I will buy from Amazon. I am aware that I can shop around for better deals and don't need my virus scanner to nag me about it.
Add the feature, fine. This should have been an opt-in feature. Avast has previously been really good about releasing new features as opt-in features that pop up after an update. They have been drifting away from this recently. Please, Avast, remember why we like using your service!
I don't know about other browsers, but in Chrome you can turn off Safe Price. In the extensions menu (chrome://extensions/) select the options for avast! Online Security. You can disable individual features.
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So, like others I signed up just because this "feature" bothered me so much. Getting occasional popups for their other services is one thing, but popping up on my third party sites just because someone is selling something that appears to be the same product (except used or refurbished maybe) is exactly the intrusive activity from malware that I want Avast to protect me from. This is exactly the reason why I stopped using McAfee and moved to Avast!
If I want to buy from Amazon, I will buy from Amazon. I am aware that I can shop around for better deals and don't need my virus scanner to nag me about it.
Add the feature, fine. This should have been an opt-in feature. Avast has previously been really good about releasing new features as opt-in features that pop up after an update. They have been drifting away from this recently. Please, Avast, remember why we like using your service!
I don't know about other browsers, but in Chrome you can turn off Safe Price. In the extensions menu (chrome://extensions/) select the options for avast! Online Security. You can disable individual features.
Unfortunately I use Firefox and there is only the option to disable or enable the entire Online Security add-on.
Maybe Google stood up to their BS and told them they had to include more than just a temporary 24 hour option.
I will most likely end up switching back to AVG anyway. They don't try to influence your shopping experience....yet.
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Yeah, that blows.
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SafePrice is awesome! 8) Just saved me $40! Thanks Avast for continuing to be the best of breed! I hope you make a commission off of my purchase because I love that you offer your product for free, which I have been freely enjoying for over 5 years! Avast ROCKS!!
For the rest of you moaning over sour grapes that you can't compete, like it or lump it...that's business!
For those of you who don't know how to remove a browser plug-in, are you from the past? :)
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Yes, so I uninstalled avast and then re-install carefully to uncheck safe price.... >:(
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Yup, just adding my two cents that this "feature" sucks. It seems like a conflict of interest or simply unethical for them to be doing this and I too think they should stick with anti-virus business and not the "getting the best price on goods' business. Weird.
I've figured out (I think) how to get rid of this Safe Price crap, but the point of my post it so simply document that there's yet another unsatisfied customer out there, in case they think this is a great idea. I think anyone who has an opinion should voice it.
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There are 2 problems with SafePrice. First it has not worked for me. It compares the price with a different item. Secondly it is not something I asked for and there seems no way to get rid of it except by disabling things I do want.
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"schmmidhouse" said: "Just so it's clear, AOS(Avast Online Security) is just a Browser Plugin/Addon and is NOT the main core function of Avast Anti Virus. The security issue is minimal at best and really will not put your PC at risk if Uninstalled or Disabled"
Sorry for yelling, but *WHAT THE FRICK?* Today, browsers are THE biggest vector for malware! And if Avast is forcing us to disable the "entire" browser protection feature, instead of just the "SafePrice" portion, then that is a very bad thing! Again, apologies for shouting, but... shmidthouse ... REALLY?! Did you really just make that idiotic statement?
Antivirus and Antimalware are not just about "scanning static files that sit on your hard drive." Schmidthouse, the world has changed since 1992, when I used the very first Mozilla browser on a World Wide Web at Naval Research Lab - and the entire Web, at that time, consisted of less than 500 sites, with minimal graphics. Please... get out of the 80's and 90's and read about malware infections, their vectors, how they happen, etc. Sorry to be so blunt, but you struck a nerve. I hope you don't take the above criticism the wrong way. Antimalware/Antivirus protection is very much about preventing malicious content from less-than-wholesome URLs, questionable sites, e-mail inboxes/servers, etc. "File scanning" is just one aspect.
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@ itfigures
I guess you completely forgot about the avast! Web Shield, which is totally unrelated to the avast Online Security (AOS) browser plugin.
The unfortunate choice of name really makes you think that it is that which provides your on-line security, when it is the Web Shield that is actually scanning the http traffic for malware (not AOS).
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+1
Well said, David.
Itfigures, the central column "Tools" are basically fluffware and there is no necessity to use any or all of them.
The shields (left column) are what are important.
You can adjust the features in use after the fact to choose only the "Tools" you want to use by going through your Control Panel "Change" function for the Avast entry.
-Noel
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"schmmidhouse" said: "Just so it's clear, AOS(Avast Online Security) is just a Browser Plugin/Addon and is NOT the main core function of Avast Anti Virus. The security issue is minimal at best and really will not put your PC at risk if Uninstalled or Disabled"
Sorry for yelling, but *WHAT THE FRICK?* Today, browsers are THE biggest vector for malware! And if Avast is forcing us to disable the "entire" browser protection feature, instead of just the "SafePrice" portion, then that is a very bad thing! Again, apologies for shouting, but... shmidthouse ... REALLY?! Did you really just make that idiotic statement?
Antivirus and Antimalware are not just about "scanning static files that sit on your hard drive." Schmidthouse, the world has changed since 1992, when I used the very first Mozilla browser on a World Wide Web at Naval Research Lab - and the entire Web, at that time, consisted of less than 500 sites, with minimal graphics. Please... get out of the 80's and 90's and read about malware infections, their vectors, how they happen, etc. Sorry to be so blunt, but you struck a nerve. I hope you don't take the above criticism the wrong way. Antimalware/Antivirus protection is very much about preventing malicious content from less-than-wholesome URLs, questionable sites, e-mail inboxes/servers, etc. "File scanning" is just one aspect.
Absolutely! I am a PAYING CUSTOMER--not a freebie user (though, years ago, I used to be). I've been paying (for years) for protection of three pcs, and now, I'm saying "what the hell?" There are pop-ups, ads, and other annoyances that I am paying AVAST TO TAKE CARE OF AND NOT ADD KEROSENE TO THE FLAMING ISSUE!!! Now I have "SafePrice" popping up on my Firefox browser. I cannot locate it or disable it without disabling my online protection. I am p-o'd, and I do not care who knows it.
Either add a way to disable this attempt to scrounge data from my browsing/shopping habits (and selling it to other companies because, come on, why else would you do something "nice" for us?), or return my money plus 40% for the aggravation you've caused me!
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I wish there was a "frustration detector" in the forum that would swing into action and pop up the many, many threads where folks in the know instruct people how to remove the
fluffware er, :) "useful and professional tools" in the center column of the Avast installer.
1. Jaggwire there's a Big Shiny Button that can distract unsuspecting users from using the Custom install link, which is the one you really should take for maximum control over what's installed. That path leads one to a selection panel where one can choose to opt out of the default install of most of the "tools", including the one at the focus of this thread. If it's not installed it's not going to bother you.
2. You can change what's installed after the fact via the Control Panel (right click Avast and choose Change). The three shields are the most useful part of the product in my opinion. The stuff in the center column can be unchecked, and voila, no more Safeprice, et. al.
I hear that the inclusion of all this extra stuff helps fund Avast development so that they can bring us the good parts for free (the term "freemium model" has been used). I'm not going to argue with that - if it's true, more power to 'em - as long as knowledgeable users can disable what they don't want I'm happy.
It IS possible to have Avast do a very nice job of providing a safety net for you very quietly and unobtrusively.
-Noel
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Why leave the software updater selected? Another dubious offering, IMO.
Almost all important software I've encountered (and some not so important) have there own "check for updates"
built in. For example Adobe Flash and Sun Java either let you know, or go right ahead and install
the update automatically.
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In my case I've decided to use it. In general I like to be in charge of exactly when all updates go in, so I have set it to notify me only - not install anything.
I always deconfigure / disable the various updaters that applications install themselves, because they take more system resources to be running in the background all the time, and it's not always possible to have them just notify, not do the update.
So far this particular "tool" in Avast has been good at notifying me when a new component has been made available.
-Noel
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If you can't turn Safe Price off without losing all of the other browser plugin functionality, then Avast is adding this annoy you so you'll pay for the full version of the product- otherwise the option in the menu would say "switch off Safe Price" instead of "switch off Safe Price for 24 hours". What is this... Facebook?
Thanks Avast, it's been a pleasure using your product for free for several years now, but this new annoying thing that I cannot turn off will be just enough to get me to move on to the latest and greatest new free product from someone else.
If you made one product and made it well, I might consider buying it, but this one has become so bloated, pop-up ridden, and full of cartoony nonsense, gallows day was coming already anyway. Take a look at XnView or VLC player, for examples of tight design and keeping in scope: years of production, and they have yet to find a need to include a toaster oven and 40 subscriptions to Vibe.
And, an advance reply to that little beam of sunshine who replies to everyone complaining about this: I'd suggest you get a job, but it's clear your job is to post upbeat replies to all the complaints about this.
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@ will.pdx,
Most things are customizable with Avast. You can turn off/disable Safe Price by following the directions on the last post of this page: https://forum.avast.com/index.php?topic=148575.msg1112787#msg1112787 (https://forum.avast.com/index.php?topic=148575.msg1112787#msg1112787).
In addition, I would suggest in the future that you Custom Install software so that you only get what you want instead of the default. But by following the instructions above, you will be able to disable Safe Price.
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In addition, I would suggest in the future that you Custom Install software so that you only get what you want instead of the default. But by following the instructions above, you will be able to disable Safe Price.
I'm sick of people giving this solution as if it were the solution to this kind of situation that is going crazy in actual software industry.
It is true it is the only chance the software industry is giving us. Just be very very very careful on install so no trash is installed on your computer. So to fight the each time more dishonest software industry with all sort of dishonest marketing you have to be extremely careful.
The only real solution is software industry becoming more honest and doing a clear distinction of what should be an opt-in option (disable by default with ability to enable it) and what should be an opt-out option (enable by default with ability to disable it). Well, in fact they already know too well what should be opt-in and opt-out but their shit dishonest marketing purpose prevails. And things that should be opt-in are turned into opt-out (and many times even hiding as much as possible the place to disable the feature).
And this is in general for the whole software industry and a lot more dangerous in a lot of other software out there (some of them offering malware on installers as opt-out) but in particular for Avast don't know for how long already.
And obviously Avast is not including anything that is dangerous -that would be insane- but more and more and more it is including things that should be opt-in as opt-out or even without the option to disable them (for example the pop-ups feature had the option to be disable in some older versions. Now that can be only turned off in premium products. Though at least they have reduced the frequency of the ad pop-ups which was insane when they first introduced the feature).
Some people are just confortable if they have the chance to get rid of the situation, "as far as I'm not one of the victims all is fine". But be sure doesn't worth it. Sooner or later you will be one of the victims of that dishonest marketing. And when it happens just remember you were fine with it.
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All industry constantly strives to increase the bottom line. If they expect to stay in business,
that's a necessity. I don't look at it as dishonesty but survival.
Would I prefer not to have to look under each rock for something hidden, you bet i would.
Uncheckey (http://unchecky.com) has come a long way toward helping to make that job a little easier.
We live in the real world and it isn't always as nice as we would like it to be.
We simply need to be come more savvy.
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All industry constantly strives to increase the bottom line. If they expect to stay in business,
that's a necessity. I don't look at it as dishonesty but survival.
Would I prefer not to have to look under each rock for something hidden, you bet i would.
Uncheckey (http://unchecky.com) has come a long way toward helping to make that job a little easier.
We live in the real world and it isn't always as nice as we would like it to be.
We simply need to be come more savvy.
And this is exactly the kind of complacency that is making the issue go worst and worst as time goes by.
If a software needs to spread malware to survive then it does not deserve survival.
And for example, in my opinion any software that includes malware, even if it is just only as an opt-out in its installer, should be flagged as malware. The software installer and the software website. Something that is not doing the security software industry which only flags as malware the third party software that is offered on the installer but not the software that offers it on its installer. If security software industry did that I'm sure that practice would be eradicated very quickly.
This is just a personal opinion. And sorry because I have moved this thread off-topic.
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There is a big difference between complacency and reality.
As I stated, we live in a real world not a fantasy and need to learn to cope with that reality.
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This is sharp practice. There is a serious doubt in my mind whether I should be letting this company anywhere near my private information.
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This is sharp practice. There is a serious doubt in my mind whether I should be letting this company anywhere near my private information.
Better them then the NSA. :) They at least tell you what they look at and have access to.
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What makes you think the NSA is the least bit bothered by the presence of Avast! on the system?
(http://i0.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/newsfeed/000/559/644/fc7.png)
-Noel
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I had a funny experience with SafePrice yesterday. Was looking at some Seiko watch, SafePrice popup appeared that some other store has it cheaper. Great, i follow the link and it opens up a cheaper watch indeed, but was a completelly unrelated different model that had nothing to do with what i was watching. Anyone else had something similar?
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I don't show SafePrice in m settings so am I ok? Meaning it isn't installed?
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Safe Price is a separate item. If you want it, it's available for Chrome at:
https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/avast-safeprice/eofcbnmajmjmplflapaojjnihcjkigck?hl=en (https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/avast-safeprice/eofcbnmajmjmplflapaojjnihcjkigck?hl=en)
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What is being referred to as "survival" in industry is actually an evil, and underhanded practice. Everyone here talks about business being the all important thing, and that we simply have to learn to cope with it... this is very wrong. We don't *have* to learn to cope with anything. If we make enough of a stink, or make certain critical choices, we can change the flow of things in the right direction.
For example... SafePrice... When I first saw it, I went to great lengths to completely remove it by using another malware scanner that flagged it. Unfortunately, i can't remember now which scanner it was, but the addition of SafePrice into the browser, without giving the user the option to disable it, or remove it during a program update is also evil, and underhanded. An antivirus is just that... antivirus. It's not supposed to be used as a tool for shopping around.
SafePrice, and anything even remotely like it is malware/adware in my eyes, and will always be removed from my system, whether I do it manually, or using a myriad of malware scanners. Never rely on one product to secure your system... I have something like 8 or 9 different security solutions, but only one antivirus.
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As has been mentioned here on the forum many times, you DO have the options to avoid installing it and to remove it, even if those options are not shown in obvious ways.
I do agree with you that legitimate, professional security software probably should not aggressively try to further its own agenda by duping users into loading their systems up with unneeded extraware, but we don't have the luxury of choosing the business model that the software maker follows. Apparently this one works. It gets the software's foot in an awful lot of doors, and apparently then a lot of folks actually choose to pay for what they can get for free. That's fascinating if you think about it.
Of course we DO have the ability to not use Avast, and to choose another product... It's not like anti-malware software is essential; if you're doing the right things it's no more than an unused safety net. Trouble is, a better product doesn't actually exist. But it's a dangerous game for Avast to continue to play... Imagine if a truly better product were to become available, providing a professional experience and not acting like borderline malware itself. It would take a little time, but I am imagining folks jumping ship. Why would customers stay with a company that treats them more like prey than a partner?
Bottom line: It is what it is, and it's the way it is on purpose, not by accident, and they quite likely know more about doing this than we do.
Look at it this way: It makes us more suspicious of our technology, that's healthy.
-Noel
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Safe Price is not included as part of AOS in avast! 2015 which is currently in beta.
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So what other "foot in the door" software modules are going to be included in that package? Or are you saying there's a shift away from the "opt out if you're savvy" model Avast has been following?
-Noel
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Simply look at the beta section and read for yourself. :)
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Oh wow, thanks for the advice, Bob. I didn't know I could read things online by myself.
So even though you posted a leading response you don't really want to discuss this conceptually after all?
-Noel
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You want concept? I deal in facts and that's what I posted. Don't have time to write a novel.
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<snip>
So even though you posted a leading response you don't really want to discuss this conceptually after all?
-Noel
If you want to talk concepts, then you will have to talk to avast and not to avast users.
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Are you really saying Avast users can't intelligently discuss such design concepts as the way the product interacts with users?
I believe I'll communicate at whatever level suits me with whomever I choose, thank you. If it's above your preferred level, you always have the option of moving on to the next thread.
People like Jason above make excellent, honestly-presented points, and encouraging expression of them might actually help the Avast folks realize where the barriers to acceptance are. It's a plain and simple fact that Avast overtly acts in some ways like the very software it's supposed to protect us against. No amount of "shh, don't talk about that, that's unpopular" are likely make the poor parts of Avast's design better.
I'm left to wonder... Why would anyone want to discourage a discussion of what could be better about the product?
-Noel
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What is the point in users discussing concepts that outside of our control, avast decide what will be offered up in installations.
What you choose to waste you time on is entirely up to you - but concepts are wide of the mark or possibly off topic for the OPs original question about safe price.
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David, it's been a long time since I've read a response that's so overtly... Wrong.
The original post in this thread is a complaint that Avast is including, among others, a piece of fluffware called "SafePrice" that conceptually just doesn't belong in an antivirus product. I went back and read it again to make sure I didn't miss anything, even though the "Are You Kidding Me?" part in the subject pretty much says it all. The post to which I was responding by Jason was even more on the point.
And yes, this product still says "ANTIVIRUS" right at the top of its UI last I looked.
If a high level conversation is beyond your desire, that doesn't mean it's so for everyone. Discussion is healthy.
Acknowledging reality is also healthy.
-Noel
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If you want to discus concepts there is nothing stopping you creating a new topic for it, rather than drive this particular topic away from the original specific question.
If avast want to join your concepts topic we can only wait and see.
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I think everyone is missing the point here.
I have been in the IT industry for over 25 yrs. I only mention this to let you know that I have a lot of experience and that my response to this topic is not based upon emotion, but on solid business experience and logic.
I use and recommend many "free" products over the years. I even purchase and recommend purchases based upon my experiences on the free product. BUT, like I tell my clients, "Just because a product doesn't cost you any money, it does not come without a price." It is up to us as consumers to determine what that cost is and whether or not you can live with it. This can be in the form of spamming emails, browser extensions, additional software that may or may not be desired. This means that as consumers we need to educate ourselves and make rational informed decisions that are not based upon emotion, but factual events. Different topic that can be quite lengthy and not the point I want to make here.
Any business that intends to stay in business has to make a profit. That is a given. Even though marketing departments would have you believe that their company is in the business of making you happy, keep you safe, that they have the best product or service in the world and that they exist just to fufil your expectations and desires, (that is always marketing's job) this is not the case. It is always about the money.
So now we know what AVast or any other businesses motive actually is, we can examine this in a new light. We can understand the free product a little better. Generally you push a free product with reduced functionality to help with marketing of the paid version with additional features and functionality. Other times you get a free product that you really want with the understanding that you will be marketed. -We really want to see that TV show, so we put up with the commercials-do we get a choice of commercials?-no, the sponsers with the biggest pockets do. Did Avast spend the time and money and resources to develop this extension not to make a profit? Absolutely not. They have to at the very least recoup these expenses or they will not stay in business. This is basic business 101. You have to at least get your expenses back or you are dead. Are they recouping these expenses from free users?? I dont think so. That means there is another source. Members of safeprice must be subsidizing this expense.
Now there is nothing inheritly wrong with this practice. It is done millions of times in business. The problem with avast doing this is that it is a conflict of interest from then end user point of view.
As an investor in the company, I would want them to maximize profits. If you tell me as company management that you are looking out for the best interest of the free users as opposed to the advertiser that wants to give me money to push their products, I am not going to be too happy and I am going to call you to task on that. this is actually a shortsighted view, but that is the way business works. it is about todays bottom line not whether it will hurt the company in the future-again another topic, but this is the way it is. The guys with the big pockets maximize todays profits, then get the hell out and let everyone else suffer the consequences.
So now we can logically say that free users cannot expect the support and loyalty that Avast will give paying advertisers and that is understandable. Again I can live with that for many products. TV programs are one thing, but as an end user, I can't accept that from my security software. The fact that it is not relayed to the end user in a open manner makes me even more suspicious. Now if on the very first installation screen, it was communicated to me that the free version was sponsored by safe price members, it would not be such an egregious act and I might be able to accept that if I have an opt out even before I installed it. If this is being included in the paid version in the same way, then Avast has made it quite clear the direction they are going and cannot be trusted with my security.
That being said, I dont blame avast for any of their actions. Management made some short sighted decisions that is going to hurt them. I was the one that made the mistake here. I preach to my clients to read user agreements, know what they are installing, do custom installs just to hopefully see what's going on, research the product they are choosing to install, etc, in other words due diligence. I did not do that in this case. I based my particular installation on avast reputation and did not do what i tell others to do and what I normally do. I have been in this business long enough to know that companies and products change good to bad and vise versa. I will not make that mistake again
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@ frogcityrd,
You're a little late with your reply.
In avast 2015, SafePrice isn't a part of Avast anymore. If you want it, you'll need a separate install for it.
https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/avast-safeprice/eofcbnmajmjmplflapaojjnihcjkigck?hl=en (https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/avast-safeprice/eofcbnmajmjmplflapaojjnihcjkigck?hl=en)
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I do realize that I am late to the party. As part of what I do in this industry is to educate my clients. When I saw this topic, I realized that I could post a reply here and show my clients many of the points that I lecture them on. It is one thing for me to tell them something and another to see a real life example. We saw everything in this post from emotional response, brand loyalty, personal attacks, etc. I am going to use this topic discussion to illustrate many of the points I bring to my clients. Normally I dont participate in these types of forums. But this had so many levels for me to teach, I could not pass on the opportunity. While this particular topic was on this issue of Avast, I will actually be teaching my clients on how to make good sound business decisions and that even I can make mistakes. While this is an old topic, the principles and lessons contained within are timeless. I do apologize for taking this thread over for my own purposes. While this is a dead issue for most people, I will be explaining to my clients why this is not a dead issue for them or Avast in an offline discussion.
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I do realize that I am late to the party. As part of what I do in this industry is to educate my clients. When I saw this topic, I realized that I could post a reply here and show my clients many of the points that I lecture them on. It is one thing for me to tell them something and another to see a real life example. We saw everything in this post from emotional response, brand loyalty, personal attacks, etc. I am going to use this topic discussion to illustrate many of the points I bring to my clients. Normally I dont participate in these types of forums. But this had so many levels for me to teach, I could not pass on the opportunity. While this particular topic was on this issue of Avast, I will actually be teaching my clients on how to make good sound business decisions and that even I can make mistakes. While this is an old topic, the principles and lessons contained within are timeless. I do apologize for taking this thread over for my own purposes. While this is a dead issue for most people, I will be explaining to my clients why this is not a dead issue for them or Avast in an offline discussion.
What you can also point out to your clients from this thread is that even Companies learn. Hence the change in way SafePrice is now available. :) I don't know what or to whom you lecture but, nothing in here any any way diminishes the protection Avast offers their customers. Even those of us that use the Free version of Avast.
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Perhaps you just need to educate them to know that with the Free product all the extraneous "tools" can actually be turned off. The reward is state of the art protection if you take just a few minutes to get smarter about your security software, and don't just click the biggest, shiniest buttons.
-Noel
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Perhaps you just need to educate them to know that with the Free product all the extraneous "tools" can actually be turned off. The reward is state of the art protection if you take just a few minutes to get smarter about your security software, and don't just click the biggest, shiniest buttons.
-Noel
While some of us are aware that these features can be turned off, it is unforgivable that a company which we trust to secure our system sneaks this sort of crap/spyware into a update >:(
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I don't believe anyone is seeking your forgiveness.
I believe Avast is in business to make money. They've chosen a business model that isn't what you expected, that's all. But thankfully, even though the extraware (that presumably makes them money when distributed en masse) is included by default, it can actually be turned off, even in the free version.
You can of course choose to use Avast - or not to use it, based on the answers to the questions, "Does this software provide value?" and "Am I smart enough to derive that value?"
-Noel
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Good points by grovegal.
Avast is a good product. I can forgive a lot in that they offer good security to the masses - for free.
But this is NOT why I purchased Avast. I had this pop up on my screen this AM. I was notified by Chrome that it had was being added, was offered a choice to decline, and I declined. (Thanks Chrome - NO thanks Avast).
How do I, (or CraigB) know, if SafePrice isn't making "Pay to Play" recommendations?
Maybe THAT's what grovegal needs to look into - Paying Avast to recommend her products above those who sell higher - even thoughshe may not be selling at the absolute lowest price.
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SafePrice is an add-on that you may add to Chrome if you want it.
It isn't part of the Avast 2015 install. If you're interested you can get it from the Chrome web store:
https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/avast-safeprice/eofcbnmajmjmplflapaojjnihcjkigck?hl=en (https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/avast-safeprice/eofcbnmajmjmplflapaojjnihcjkigck?hl=en)
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I just purchased Avast a week and a half ago. It is Avast 2015. It installed SafePrice without any warning at all. So it is simply untrue that "It isn't part of the Avast 2015 install." I am extremely unhappy with this adware getting installed without my knowledge, especially since I am using the paid version. And not at all obvious how to disable it. First experience with Avast is very disappointing. Very likely to uninstall and request a refund. What a shame.
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My Chrome browser notified me a few minutes ago that a new extension had been added to Chrome "without my knowledge" and that extension was named AVAST SAFE PRICE. So I am thinking WTF!?!?! Actually, I have not consciously updated Avast for quite awhile (months ago), so if this a real thing (Avast installed today 31-Jan-2015 a plugin without letting know) then my long term confidence in Avast as a company and a product has just been fully deflated! BTW, I just confirmed my Avast version is 2015.10.0.2208 (...and I am still thinking WTF!!!).
I found this thread via a forum search so I hope it is the right place to post this. Advise if not. I only read the last page or so and it seems well related to my concerns. But no matter what the rest of the thread says, and whatever excuses are made for this, it is still just wrong to covertly modify my computer. CHROME:1 AVAST:0 for today.
Doug
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Yea same complaint as others here..
I pay for Avast and love it, but just today I received a Chrome notification that this extension was trying to run without permission from Avast itself, and was something I did not elect to download.
I do not appreciate an unrelated product attempting to infiltrate it's way onto my computer, **no matter the reason given.**
It also seems somewhat predatory given how it was done only through the Chrome browser, as another member of my family could have easily not have noticed such a passing permission request from a trusted source such as Avast..
I am glad Avast thinks they have another useful product on their hands, (I personally have no use for it, given my own very careful steps that I take visiting seedy sites to purchase things) but they should advertise it separately on their website as a separate product *for willing users* to download!
Attempting to sneak it in through a plugin just because I have another plugin that corresponds with something I have purchased - just lowers your reputation as a company in the eyes of this customer.
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Yea same complaint as others here..
I pay for Avast and love it, but just today I received a Chrome notification that this extension was trying to run without permission from Avast itself, and was something I did not elect to download.
I do not appreciate an unrelated product attempting to infiltrate it's way onto my computer, **no matter the reason given.**
It also seems somewhat predatory given how it was done only through the Chrome browser, as another member of my family could have easily not have noticed such a passing permission request from a trusted source such as Avast..
I am glad Avast thinks they have another useful product on their hands, (I personally have no use for it, given my own very careful steps that I take visiting seedy sites to purchase things) but they should advertise it separately on their website as a separate product *for willing users* to download!
Attempting to sneak it in through a plugin just because I have another plugin that corresponds with something I have purchased - just lowers your reputation as a company in the eyes of this customer.
Not a big deal. :)
(http://www.screencast-o-matic.com/screenshots/u/Lh/1425247852608-51091.png)
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I don't use chrome so I can't speak from personal experience - but as has been mentioned avast no longer includes the SafePrice odd-on as part of the installation.
So you would have to download it as a chrome add-on - We (regular avast and forum users) have seen a number of issues related to chrome add-ons. By all accounts there is an add-on recovery/refresh function whereby a deleted add-on can be refreshed/reinstalled. This was seen in the viruses and worms forum where a malicious add-on was removed, but on reboot it was restored by chrome.
I don't know if that might be what is going on here in chrome for those joining this topic late on.
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Hi DavidR,
Chrome SafePrice plugin is part of Avast installation, but few days postponed.
Nevertheless we cannot force the installation of the plugin and the user has to always accept the installation. So for ironhorse86 and dougrobbins2002: You can just decline the installation of SafePrice plugin, or ignore it completely. It won't be turned on until you agree to it.
Martin
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Thanks for the clarification Martin.
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Hi DavidR,
Chrome SafePrice plugin is part of Avast installation, but few days postponed.
Nevertheless we cannot force the installation of the plugin and the user has to always accept the installation. So for ironhorse86 and dougrobbins2002: You can just decline the installation of SafePrice plugin, or ignore it completely. It won't be turned on until you agree to it.
Martin
This is obviously a change from what the practice was not that long ago.
Originally it was part of the initial install package, then it was removed and available as a separate install for those that wanted it.
Now, it again appears to be part of the program install. ???
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Thank you for the OP. I am just casting my vote to say I'm appalled to find a sleazy price finder on my toolbar! Why not just put porn on my tool bar and when I complain respond with "Just remove it" You miss the point of protection-ware. Definitely seeking alternatives. Trust has been betrayed.
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Thank you for the OP. I am just casting my vote to say I'm appalled to find a sleazy price finder on my toolbar! Why not just put porn on my tool bar and when I complain respond with "Just remove it" You miss the point of protection-ware. Definitely seeking alternatives. Trust has been betrayed.
I think you missed the point that this in no way compromises your protection. It's an additional feature that you can either choose to use or loose.
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Apologies for bumping this back to life but I needed to vent my frustration with safe price as well. I carefully selected "custom" installation for Avast! Free AV 2015. I selected only the shields and web protection. Nowhere did Avast offer any info regarding this safe price crap. I understand that I can uninstall the web protection option and I certainly shall but I am actually appalled that my AV program would include such nonsense at all ... never mind without full disclosure upfront. To hide it in "web protection" is so ironic as to be almost laughable ... except I'm not laughing.
I was a loyal user of Avast for about 10 years. In 2013-2014 I became discouraged with all the bloat and incompatibilities that surfaced. I was hoping Avast straightened out its act in the past 2 years but I can see it hasn't. Too bad. It was such a reliable program for so long ...
Goodbye again and for the last time Avast.
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Apologies for bumping this back to life but I needed to vent my frustration with safe price as well. I carefully selected "custom" installation for Avast! Free AV 2015. I selected only the shields and web protection. Nowhere did Avast offer any info regarding this safe price crap. I understand that I can uninstall the web protection option and I certainly shall but I am actually appalled that my AV program would include such nonsense at all ... never mind without full disclosure upfront. To hide it in "web protection" is so ironic as to be almost laughable ... except I'm not laughing.
I was a loyal user of Avast for about 10 years. In 2013-2014 I became discouraged with all the bloat and incompatibilities that surfaced. I was hoping Avast straightened out its act in the past 2 years but I can see it hasn't. Too bad. It was such a reliable program for so long ...
Goodbye again and for the last time Avast.
Hope the venting made you feel better sjesme2. :)
SafePrice is a separate module.
It isn't part of OnlineSecurity at all:
(http://www.screencast-o-matic.com/screenshots/u/Lh/1433432208745-25140.png)
It is not a part of Avast Online Security. You only get it if you choose to download it.
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Bob,
In Firefox Safeprice is part of Avast Online Security, and not a seperate module you can choose ( not ) to install.
However you can deselect it if you don't want to use it.
Greetz, Red.
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It actually did make me feel a little better Bob ... Thanks :)
Nonetheless, whatever you've shown in your post was not an option for me. It did not appear on the custom installation screen and I found no reference whatsoever to it once the installation was up and running. I checked both within the program and on manage add-ons (IE10). Zip, nada, nuttin, nowhere.
Further, when I changed the installation to remove web protection, safe price magically disappeared.
Perhaps it is because I have the free version? Otherwise, I am at a loss to explain it.
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It actually did make me feel a little better Bob ... Thanks :)
Nonetheless, whatever you've shown in your post was not an option for me. It did not appear on the custom installation screen and I found no reference whatsoever to it once the installation was up and running. I checked both within the program and on manage add-ons (IE10). Zip, nada, nuttin, nowhere.
Further, when I changed the installation to remove web protection, safe price magically disappeared.
Perhaps it is because I have the free version? Otherwise, I am at a loss to explain it.
In IE, simply follow these instructions:
(http://www.screencast-o-matic.com/screenshots/u/Lh/1433946544771-8610.png)
(http://www.screencast-o-matic.com/screenshots/u/Lh/1433946231920-75718.png)
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Oh. My. Goodness. Avast certainly buried it well! Thank you VERY much for the step-by-step explanation; I now feel totally sheepish but am happy to gain the benefit of your patience and knowledge.
*bow*
And now I must go reinstall the web protection module! *slinks off*
;D
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Happy to help. :)
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Perhaps its because I'm using chrome but I don't see the same image as posted above.
In regards to the safe price function.. I was shocked it is built in to a malware/antivirus program and it has put me on guard a bit. (I will be keeping an eye out for another product with less "in your face" stuff.
And while it may not be related, I lost all my bookmarks and login settings about the same time my evaluation period expired on the full Avast suite. Just saying.
Perhaps I'll be considered old fashioned, but I figure a company that focuses on one thing usually means it does it really well. A company that tries to be all things to all people may loose focus on the core product. Just my opinion.
I noticed more popup ads from Avast also.
The Safe price popup tool bar provides incorrect information.. not all items it offered where the same or even a lower price and in my case they are not even in my country!
Back to the image I don't have the option to enable disable like the previous post shows. Improvement or just different for different browser?
Just pointing it out for others.
(http://i.imgur.com/7JCAdPs.png)
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Did you click on the More Settings option ???
(Safe Price doesn't come with AOS)
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Did you click on the More Settings option ???
(Safe Price doesn't come with AOS)
I was just pointing out that it's not the same in Chrome or it has changed since your original post. The functions are still there you just have to drill down to "more settings"
I don't know what AOS is.
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Did you click on the More Settings option ???
(Safe Price doesn't come with AOS)
I was just pointing out that it's not the same in Chrome or it has changed since your original post. The functions are still there you just have to drill down to "more settings"
I don't know what AOS is.
AOS = Avast Online Security.
My screenshot was taken after I pressed on More Options. :)
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As the official Avast blog on this subject is now 404, I will re-post my comment to company representative Deborah Salmi here.
Deborah,
Just out of curiosity, are you able to tell me how many customers you have lost through Avast's promotion and use of the exact type of adware we have previously used your program to prevent?
I am a Firefox user, so please do me the courtesy of telling me how I can REMOVE this software. I have no wish to have adware of any type on my machine, or those of my clients, so please don't give me any malarkey about how I can "disable" it when its mere presence and the fact that it was installed by a formerly trustworthy antivirus company is totally unacceptable.
You mention in this blog that you "need to find a way to communicate this better." This tells me that you are more concerned with spin than fixing this issue, so like so many other posters on this blog, I will be leaving Avast.
Goodbye.
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horton,
besides not having read this thread and not have learned about the options/settings that avast is offering...
What is your question/problem ?
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My problems are that Avast is
- promoting adware
- not giving Firefox users an option to Remove (not disable) said adware
- more concernerd with spin than solving this problem
Please re-read my post if you are unsure of the above.
horton,
besides not having read this thread and not have learned about the options/settings that avast is offering...
What is your question/problem ?
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Let's see...
1]
avast is not promoting adware
2]
avast sure is giving you the option to install/remove safe price
It is your own choice as user if you want to have it installed or not.
So, the real problem here is a pebkac one.
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I have used Avast! since last century and installed it on hundreds of clients, relatives, friends, and neighbor's systems over the years.
Avast! is a very different product from what it was even 5 years ago.
Sales pop-ups happen all the time, there is 'gotcha' trickery in every program update sequence, the interface is now a clickable ad, and so on.
I used to tell folks that Avast! was a safe install. Now I tell them it's tricky and they have to pay attention.
I assume that the data we send to Avast! is mined for marketing value... There is no indication that it wouldn't be and given all the rest I assume the worst.
Now out of the blue I am asked to approve SafePrice.
Why the heck would I want my AV program messing about in my shopping?
I declined the installation yet there it is in Firefox add-ons and disabled.
That's like declining Windows 10... You still wind up with it on your hard drive.
So all in all I beg to disagree...
My real problem is that my trusted AV company has been taken over by marketeers.
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I have to say as a long time user and supporter who has recommended to easily many 100's of people over the years, Avast is now starting to embarrass me. :-[
Okay this stuff can be disabled, so what, why is it there in the first place as an opt-out, it should be at the very least an opt-in and ideally not there at all....
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Avast isn't forcing anyone to use Safe Price.
@lakrsrool,
"Avast is now starting to embarrass me."
If it embarrasses you why are you still using it? ???
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After installing an update to my (paid subscription) Avast Internet Security tonight, I was a little surprised when I opened Firefox after restarting my computer, and found an additional tab saying "Another program on your computer would like to modify Firefox with the following add-on: Avast SafePrice 10.3.5.13."
I had a vague idea what it was, and I seem to remember kicking it off my computer a year or so ago. I searched on "SafePrice," and this thread was one of the first results. I read only the first and last pages of the thread, but I will not allow SafePrice to install, and I hope I don't see it in the add-ons the next time I check.
As others have said, if users want such a "feature," it should be opt-in. The present situation amounts to opt-out. (I don't play "unsubscribe" games with spammers, ether.) Maybe it's nice for those who want it, but I don't want it. Add me to the list of AIS users who think it's an unnecessary, somewhat intrusive "non-feature."
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Avast isn't forcing anyone to use Safe Price.
@lakrsrool,
"Avast is now starting to embarrass me."
If it embarrasses you why are you still using it? ???
I'll tell you what also embarrasses me; that is how there are some on this board who apparently take the view that some of us that have been happy with Avast for a very long time should for some inexplicable reason not be allowed to express our heartfelt disagreement with the direction Avast has more recently taken that should intuitively be understood to have very little to do specifically with "Safe Price" actually.
Perhaps I've been using Avast longer than you've owned a computer considering it has easily been 15+ years. Regardless of whether this is the case, the fact is that for the vast majority of this time I've highly recommended Avast to many 100's of people including family, friends and students during these many years going back to a time when Avast was relatively unknown.
What I do not understand is why someone is apparently unable to understand how a long-time Avast user might want to remain a loyal and steadfast customer simply because Avast does an excellent job in the realm of AV protection but at the same time might be of the opinion that the direction Avast is headed outside of AV protection is arguably misguided.
What is it you and others who hold this point of view think we, who still continue to like and want to use what Avast provides in the way of AV protection, should do in regards to specific issues that we disagree with outside of AV protection, simply REMAIN SILENT?!?! How about considering the possibility that some of us past decade plus loyal Avast customers would prefer to express our disagreement regarding certain aspects of Avast in the hope that we might help persuade a change in direction for what we in all sincerity believe, right or wrong, would be a more productive approach to take. Or is this something that any of you have not even considered at all?
Again, I have to say that it is this confrontational approach that some on this board often take using sarcastic platitudes to incessantly defend what in many ways is the indefensible and in so doing fail to comprehend the concept of "constructive criticism" that at least has minimally some level of merit that I find to be very sad indeed. :-[ (I know, just one more "novel" among many) ;)
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In response to this unsolicited disproportionate add-on install without my permission, I've decided to immediately change my e-mail address to a junk e-mail address, as well as a junk username. Next time, I'll stop using Avast! altogether.
US based Avast! should learn that not everybody in the world shares your American opt-out perspective or view on privacy. You have been warned.
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The regular install does add many "value-added" components. This install, most commonly used by novices, is more to avast's advantage
rather than yours. If you want to take control of the situation, choose the customized install. Not just avast doing this.
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j2708787
before posting, do some reading please.
avast does not install things without your permission as has been explained many times.
This has also nothing at all to do with where avast is based.
Besides, avast is not US based but European.
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j2708787
before posting, do some reading please.
avast does not install things without your permission as has been explained many times.
This has also nothing at all to do with where avast is based.
Besides, avast is not US based but European.
In Europe, do the privacy settings default to "opt-in", as they do in the USA ?
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I still do not understand why is this "plugin" included in Avast. What is the next step? Plugin for car dealers?
Your product was developed (I believe) for protection against intrusion/harm from internet and removal viruses from computers. Now explain what security enhancement this n"plugin" adding to ANY computer?
I believe the plugin not only points to cheapest but also to safe and reputable purchases.
The plugin should be disabled by default, if you don't want it then don't use it.
Because of my experience with the Avast WebRep tool and things being decided by a popular vote, just what determines 'safe and reputable' with this tool... is it once again a flawed data compiling that can be manipulated by VR host machine instances telling Avast Analytics a site is safe?
Just for reference the Avast WebRep tool was reporting FBI.gov and the IC3 (Internet Crime Complaint Center) as highly unreputable through manipulated analytics.
I will admit I do not have this portion of Avast installed any longer just over this 'safe and reputable' flawed analytics process. And I totally understand the OP's frustrations.
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so, NOT ONLY did this stupid SafePrice crap load itself on my machine, but ALSO, Avast let something from somewhere add the Conduit Toolbar, Add Conduit to my search engines, AND change my home page to Yahoo Search!
Great job, guys!
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so, NOT ONLY did this stupid SafePrice crap load itself on my machine, but ALSO, Avast let something from somewhere add the Conduit Toolbar, Add Conduit to my search engines, AND change my home page to Yahoo Search!
Great job, guys!
You've got something else going on.....
I opted to allow SafePrice. I don't have the Conduit Toolbar and my search engine is Chrome.
Follow the directions here if you want help: https://forum.avast.com/index.php?topic=53253.0 (https://forum.avast.com/index.php?topic=53253.0)
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I spent hours trying to find a way to remove Safe Price from IE 11 browser. I have Windows 10. I went to the settings in the Avast program to no avail. The various responses on where to find it in the program did not help. I checked every single setting in the software and there was NOTHING there to uncheck for Safe Price. I had already checked the "Manage add ons" in IE and of course there was nothing there to disable either, even after clicking into areas that are not immediately visible. So as a last resort, after searching the internet and finding no way to uninstall, or disable SAFE price, I went to the registry, searched for Safe Price, found it, deleted it and now the problem is no longer there. Whooohooo...
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I spent hours trying to find a way to remove Safe Price from IE 11 browser. I have Windows 10. I went to the settings in the Avast program to no avail. The various responses on where to find it in the program did not help. I checked every single setting in the software and there was NOTHING there to uncheck for Safe Price. I had already checked the "Manage add ons" in IE and of course there was nothing there to disable either, even after clicking into areas that are not immediately visible. So as a last resort, after searching the internet and finding no way to uninstall, or disable SAFE price, I went to the registry, searched for Safe Price, found it, deleted it and now the problem is no longer there. Whooohooo...
Settings, Manage add-ons: Select the add-on and select disable.
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I just went to update Avast and thankfully FIREFOX asked me whether I wanted to allow the installation of Safe Price. A quick search got me here and I noticed numerous pages and even videos on how to get rid of it.
I find it VERY disturbing that Avast would install crapware and modify my browser WITHOUT my consent.
I haven't tried it, but apparently many people don't like it and why on earth am I PAYING for software that then installs crapware?
I feel more and more like the entire internet is filled with giant loads of crap. And instead of PROTECTING me from crap Avast ADDS to it!
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I find it VERY disturbing that Avast would install crapware and modify my browser WITHOUT my consent
1] It is not crapware.
It is just a extra and you can choose to install it or not.
2] As you say yourself, you are asked if you want to install it or not. That very clearly shows it is not installed without your consent.
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I find it VERY disturbing that Avast would install crapware and modify my browser WITHOUT my consent
<snip>
2] As you say yourself, you are asked if you want to install it or not. That very clearly shows it is not installed without your consent.
Not entirely correct, it isn't avast asking if you want to install it, but your browser asking if you are going to allow it (to be activated). So it is essentially on your browser awaiting approval of the user.
If you do a custom install, no where will you see Safe Price mentioned, nor will you see the other Avast Online Security (AOS) browser add-on, because both come under the heading Browser Protection. This I would say is very confusing even if a user were to do a custom install.
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I find it VERY disturbing that Avast would install crapware and modify my browser WITHOUT my consent
<snip>
2] As you say yourself, you are asked if you want to install it or not. That very clearly shows it is not installed without your consent.
Not entirely correct, it isn't avast asking if you want to install it, but your browser asking if you are going to allow it (to be activated). So it is essentially on your browser awaiting approval of the user.
If you do a custom install, no where will you see Safe Price mentioned, nor will you see the other Avast Online Security (AOS) browser add-on, because both come under the heading Browser Protection. This I would say is very confusing even if a user were to do a custom install.
I can confirm that action. The warning or request for permission comes from the browser. It used to be a separate install. Guess someone decided to change that again. :(
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Why would anyone even trust this. I mean come on, shop around, these forced things from Avast, crap-ware, spyware whatever you want to call it, need to stop.
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Why would anyone even trust this. I mean come on, shop around, these forced things from Avast, crap-ware, spyware whatever you want to call it, need to stop.
Your computer, your choice. If you don't like the product, find something else. :)
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I have Avast, the addons I don't like, you seem to be taking all these comments way to lightly, Bob, give me a break...minus the smiley faces nonsense.
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I have Avast, the addons I don't like, you seem to be taking all these comments way to lightly, Bob, give me a break...minus the smiley faces nonsense.
Simply don't install them or, if installed remove them.
Do you really think that over thirty of your own posts of complaints are going to have more of an effect than what's already been expressed by others ???
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I have Avast, the addons I don't like, you seem to be taking all these comments way to lightly, Bob, give me a break...minus the smiley faces nonsense.
Simply don't install them or, if installed remove them.
Do you really think that over thirty of your own posts of complaints are going to have more of an effect than what's already been expressed by others ???
Everyone's post counts. Why are you keeping score, there is a valid issue, which despite numerous response and you sugar coating things has not been handled by Avast. Please explain you lack of respect for me as a user with valid concerns.
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I have Avast, the addons I don't like, you seem to be taking all these comments way to lightly, Bob, give me a break...minus the smiley faces nonsense.
Simply don't install them or, if installed remove them.
Do you really think that over thirty of your own posts of complaints are going to have more of an effect than what's already been expressed by others ???
Everyone's post counts. Why are you keeping score, there is a valid issue, which despite numerous response and you sugar coating things has not been handled by Avast. Please explain you lack of respect for me as a user with valid concerns.
You've over expressed your concerns. Like a nagging wife, it becomes stale after a while.
You're totally wrong about the sugarcoating my complaints on this topic have been expressed loud and clear. Unlike you, I don't keep harping on the same topic.
This is primarily a support forum so there are more important things to do than complain.
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The safeprice addition can be disabled by unchecking the browser protection, or when you turn the browser on, don't accept Avast changing your browser or putting this in. Restart your browser and make sure the safe price isn't there. There is a step by step how to created by several posters, which includes pictures. In some cases I have learned to helped others through my mistakes and even installed that safe price, but learned not to. Learning the bells and whistles is what this support forum is all about. Some may not agree with me, or I may give my views which at times are to help getting support for others that refuse to post. Learning uses of this software was a big jump in what an anti-virus program has to offer. I prefer a layered approach. You can't please everyone, and some of us like lighter features in an AV program, the way the old Avast worked. But on the positive side, some of the features such as software updater have helped. Others have not. It depends on what you want in an A.V. program. I have a right to post and to help and at times be as frustrated as many of you are.
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The safeprice addition can be disabled by unchecking the browser protection, or when you turn the browser on, don't accept Avast changing your browser or putting this in. Restart your browser and make sure the safe price isn't there. There is a step by step how to created by several posters, which includes pictures. In some cases I have learned to helped others through my mistakes and even installed that safe price, but learned not to. Learning the bells and whistles is what this support forum is all about. Some may not agree with me, or I may give my views which at times are to help getting support for others that refuse to post. Learning uses of this software was a big jump in what an anti-virus program has to offer. I prefer a layered approach. You can't please everyone, and some of us like lighter features in an AV program, the way the old Avast worked. But on the positive side, some of the features such as software updater have helped. Others have not. It depends on what you want in an A.V. program. I have a right to post and to help and at times be as frustrated as many of you are.
Always do a custom install and in most instances,you'll be able to select what to install and what not too.
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also please realize in Avast! SafeZone Browser to disable Avast! SafePrice you must follow those instruction
https://www.avast.com/faq.php?article=AVKB209#idt_110
it's the icon with SafePrice 'logo' which is click-able (and greyed out means disabled) ...
(yes it took me while to find and figure it out too)
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I realize this is a hoary, ancient thread, but I just noticed it while trying to figure out what SafePrice was doing, uninvited, on my computer. But looking down the replies, at least on the first page makes me wonder, "How come nobody pointed out to Grovegal that SafePrice would continue to send customers away from her listing whether the recommendations appeared on her screen or not?"
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I don't have the SafeZone Browser but I have SafePrice disabled in my extensions.