This is getting a bit tedious,spyware,data packets,blah blah.
Dont get me wrong we need to know more,Vinnie has said they are simple version info,who cares,if you dont like it dont use it.
I personally dont use bearshare,its a good program but I prefer another.If you are worried about your security then use something else!

Very true Batfink,
but it is not just for my own sake to spread the word, wouldn't you agree?
It is to make others aware and get feedback on what they find out.
You would want to know if you'd have a trojan in your PC wouldn't you? Even if you understand hardly anything about computers. It comes down to privacy issues and what choices specific programs give you or don't give you.

And what these programs install into your PC without your permission or approval.
And what these programs send out over the internet FROM your computer.

Of course I can just choose not to use such a program.
But only, because I am aware of what it does.

You agree that there are many out there who will use gnutella clients, because of the Napster demise now and how many of these users will be easy 'fodder' for statistic collectors? Probably the majority.

Knowledge provides choice.
If you have the knowledge, you can choose to share it, or not.
If you don't have the knowledge, ......

That's what these forums are about too, aren't they?
Spreading knowledge, and learning.

JD

True enough JD,but at the moment no-one is 100% certain these packets of info are what Vinnie says they are.
The instal now offers the chance not to instal the 'extras' admittedly it was a bit sly before,and i imagine thousands of unsuspecting people just installed happily not knowing what was going on in the background.
I agree everyone should be made aware,and yes this is the place to do it.
My previous post was not a dig at anyone,just an overall tiredness at always reading the same info on bershare.