Security software firm AVG has defended changes in its privacy policy, due to come into effect on Thursday (15 October), allowing it to collect and resell users’ anonymised web browsing and search history.
Yeah but if they come with some browser "add-on" like some "safe searching add-on or toolbar", etc., as many have in the past you have to be extra careful to not even install those "add-ons" because often they're not even developed by the antivirus companies and therefore can operate outside of their so-called privacy settings and privacy policies.
I bet these companies are hurting. Most users with windows 7 on are probably just using the built in windows defender. Even if its not as good MS doesn't prompt you to download anything else like they used to. Probably are having to resort to new ways to make money.
Putting an upgrade advertisement/banner or link in the programs probably doesn't sway too many freeware users either. I would think so many freeware users are using the free versions for the fact don't have to put up with registering, or don't have the money for annual licensing.