Spyware and adware are currently two of the top irritants facing internet users.
Spyware is the term for software that is used to collect information about an individual or organisation without their knowledge. Often malicious in nature, it can be deposited as an e-mail attachment or as a website download and used to harvest passwords or other confidential data.
Adware tends to be less malicious, generating adverts matched to browsing habits; but it can still be an invasion of privacy and a great annoyance for users.
TRUSTe hopes that the Trusted Download Program will set out market incentives for adware and other software companies to tell consumers what is in downloadable software, and obtain their consent prior to download.
"With consumers downloading more and more software, it's vital to give people real control over what they will allow on their computers," said Fran Maier, executive director and president of TRUSTe. "Through our Trusted Download Program we will provide a clear, actionable set of standards and an effective method of monitoring and enforcing those standards. This extends TRUSTe's mission to build trust between individuals and organisations online."
According to TRUSTe, the Trusted Download Program works by publishing a whitelist of certified applications. The whitelist will be used by companies – starting with program sponsors such as Yahoo!, AOL, Computer Associates, CNET Networks and Verizon – as a tool to make business decisions about advertising, partnering or distributing software products.
To be placed on the whitelist, adware and trackware must prominently disclose the types of advertising that will be displayed, personal information that will be tracked, and user settings that may be altered.
They must also obtain user opt-in consent for the download. An easy uninstall with clear instructions must be provided, and advertisements must be labelled with the name of the adware program.
A trial of the program is expected to take place early next year.