This thread and the actions of sites like those mentioned are the reason that I will only use the original vendor's website to download software.
If I can't I will be looking for alternatives before going somewhere like these sites.
i'm going to have to disagree scott,a well designed reliable download site is generally preferred to vendors' own sites;also,some vendors actually refer you to a dedicated download website.
Well, it is just my own feelings.
I know that companies like avast prefer people to download from the download sites, because it is cheaper for them, and reduces the load on the servers. I can also understand this.
I just don't like them on principle, and my main problem is that the way they do the adverts...it is almost impossible find the download link amongst them all...
I think it takes less time for me to find the direct link for avast (I don't actually remember if it is listed on the website anymore) as opposed to somewhere else.