CCleaner Piriform Scam: Uncovering the Truth Behind the Controversy

CCleaner, a popular cleaning and optimization software developed by Piriform, has been under fire for its alleged involvement in data collection and bundling practices. The controversy surrounding CCleaner's business model has sparked heated debates among users and tech enthusiasts alike.

In 2017, Avast, an antivirus developer, acquired CCleaner from Piriform. Since then, the company has faced scrutiny over its handling of user data. Many have accused CCleaner of collecting information about its users without their explicit consent. This is a far cry from Piriform's original promise to protect users' privacy.

The issue lies in CCleaner's installation process. During the initial setup, users are presented with fine print that grants permission for additional software to be installed on their devices. These programs include Google Chrome browser, Google Toolbar, and Avast Free Antivirus plus AVG Antivirus Free. If users do not pay attention to this fine print or opt-out during setup, these apps will be automatically installed.

Microsoft has voiced its concerns over CCleaner's bundling practices, describing them as somewhat 'shady.' While these programs themselves are not malicious, the way they are presented to users raises ethical questions.

CCleaner is not the only app that has been accused of collecting user data without permission. Avast itself has faced similar allegations since taking over management of CCleaner. In fact, Tap or click here for an app that will spot fine print gotchas for you, a recent report revealed that Avast was collecting user data even when users opted out.

To avoid falling prey to these types of bundling practices and data collection, it is essential to pay attention to the fine print during installation. Users must opt-out during setup to prevent unwanted apps from being installed on their devices.

The controversy surrounding CCleaner's business model serves as a reminder for users to be vigilant when installing software and to carefully review the terms and conditions before giving consent. By doing so, users can protect their privacy and avoid potential scams.

In conclusion, while CCleaner is not inherently malicious, its bundling practices and alleged data collection have raised concerns among users and tech experts. As technology continues to evolve, it is crucial for software developers to prioritize user privacy and transparency in order to maintain trust with their customers.

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