To compel sites and software makers to participate, the big-name players involved in the program will publish a “whitelist” of sites and applications that have received a “seal of approval.” Sites or companies that do not apply for certification or are found to be in violation of the guidelines may be rejected from major portals and search engines.
Expected to launch in beta form in early 2006, the program will focus on helping to curb the spread of hidden adware and spyware by isolating sites and software makers that infect users computers with unwanted or intrusive programs.
The group will issue certificate to sites that comply with a code of conduct that would require them to plainly disclose whether downloads contain any hidden software that will generate popup ads, track user activity, collect personal information or change user settings.
Sites taking part in the Trusted Download Program also would have to ask surfers to opt in to any such programs before they could be downloaded and provide users with instructions on how to uninstall the software.
In addition to appealing to sites, the TrustE group also will pressure adware makers to label all ads with their names and maintain an inventory of sites using their programs.
“This could be the end of unwanted pop-up ads,” TrustE Executive Director Fran Maier said.
However, most analysts believe the coalition, which also includes CNet Networks and Computer Associates, will have trouble getting participation from sites and especially adware companies. Additionally, they say, many spyware applications do not go through legitimate channels; many find their way onto peer-to-peer networks, warez sites and adult sites without the knowledge or permission of their operators.
The new system is being developed in cooperation with the Federal Trade Commission and the Center for Democracy and Technology.