I understand your point of view and to some extent share it. I note also, that Softonic is still offering a free download of Avast antivirus but it doesn't mention, of course, that unless you choose 'customise' for the installation you will end up with the Websearch toolbar as well, that will put your own browser out of action.
It's no good saying, 'Oh well, you should have been more careful about what you were downloading', when you are not specifically asked if you want Softonic Websearch. The question is put in a highly misleading form ... to tick a box that says 'Allow this program access to the web for updates' ... not the program you are trying to download, that is, but Softonic Websearch, though by the time you've understood that, it's too late.
I'm still convinced Avast is the best antivirus, but this browser hijack thing is not technically-speaking a virus. It is, however, a damned annoying, time-wasting irritation that no reputable company should put about and a timely warning from Avast Online Security would have helped me (and many others) avoid it.
