> I agree with the digging into someone's email box.
>
>
I think its system information. In os X you have to create a user id. And
then that is automatically stored in address book, and I believe I have seen
some
info from Apple encouraging access to address book. But you have a good point
about privacy. But in another sense, if someone is using your software then
perhaps they might have to sacrifice a tiny bit of privacy as part of the
license agreement.
>
> While phoning home can be frowned upon by *some* users, it is a very
> common technique in modern software.
>
As a matter of fact, I thought I read a year or two ago that Microsoft does
this all the time - sending snapshots of what software is used and system
information back to Redmond.
> It can even be appreciated by the
> users if it also provides a useful service, like checking for updates.
>
Sure, much like Apple's Software update which notifies them of new versions.
As matter of fact maybe that would be the way to go - have a screen popup and
ask them if they want to check for free updates to the program. They have the
option to say No.
> > These underhanded techniques can usually be detected, and when they
> > are it makes people very, very angry. There was a Mac app recently
> > (shall remain nameless) that deleted the user's home directory ...
>
I never suggested doing anything to the users system. I would imagine that
plenty of legitimate users would have the damage done by accident and would
never even think of such a thing.
I just suggested trolling for information (software version, who its
registered to (which comes from inside the app), which system its on, and where
if
possible). I would think its a good idea for many companies to have information
about who is using their products. For example, should they go a dongle like
Logic Pro, Quark, etc or not? Is their rampant piracy or not very much. If not
very much then perhaps no need for touch measures.
By the way, (since this is an OT thread) doesn't the RIAA do some kind of
spyware type of thing to find out which 12 year old has downloaded music to
sue?
How else would they know whats on people's computers? And I wonder too how
they can tell the difference between an MP3 you ripped yourself from your
legallly purchased CD, and one you snagged.
>
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