Mr.Safe, I actually registered just for you.
I happened on this page because I too was looking why this process was throwing out so many network requests. It is alarming how quickly and suddenly you were attacked. I am in awe how you maintained your composure in the realm of users like Nesivos and RejZoR
Nesivos:
"Since I have been posting on this forum for about one year Mr.Safe is the second poster that I have seen who is complaining about avast! connecting to the internet."
Gopher John:
RejZoR, I agree. If one doesn't trust their security program, then why are they running it at all?
RejZoR:
Too many to list... but his logo next to his name, "We are supersheep, resistance is futile!" ... really didn't realize he took that to heart...sheesh.
I'm pretty sure this thread will be deleted because we are making this up... afterall, how can you and me SUDDENLY be having this problem given the MILLIONS out there who aren't!
So not to threadcap with my dire predictions on the fate of this thread, let me divulge a few thoughts of my own.
1. The files sending data back to Avast.
Avastsvc.exe
avast.setup
AvastUI.exe
2. Common sense tells us that the programs will send data back and forth for the following
a) Program updates (checked every 240 minutes (4 hours))
b) Virus definition updates (checked every 240 minutes (4 hours))
c) Renewing free registrations (1 time a year)
d) Credit Alerts (costs $10/month)
e) Avast Community
f) Avast Community recommended features
g) Avast Community social networking features
h) Webrep
The sheep want you to believe everything Avast is is righteous. I'm not so sure given how much effort was diverted into trying to pull the wool over your eyes Mr. Safe
I mean technically, in order for the "Avast Community" to work, you would have to have a list of every file on your computer, or submit every file to a list (upload the file to Avast's servers). Since this isn't feasible, the next best option is to create a checksum that would represent that file. So more than likely, Avast is sending a "secret code" back to homebase alerting them of every file you open and how often you access that file. It is basically the ultimate of ultimate spyware. You would then have to trust Avast to immediately delete the file and lookup history for your IP. If not, they know more than your government.
Also running an antivirus requires read privileges for your ENTIRE hard drive, password files and all. If you want to trust it to remove "virii" you also have to enable WRITE access.
The fact that people are saying you shouldn't question your antivirus software is *ridiculous*! And if the response is "you're free to uninstall it" then you should consider not walking away from avast, but RUNNING!
Unless you like lambchops... mmmm.
P.S. IANAL, nor even a citizen of the Czech Republic so I have no idea the rules or government oversight (if any) they must submit to.