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Digsby Junk Software: Avoid Unwanted Installs

July 7, 2009
Digsby Junk Software: Avoid Unwanted Installs

Navigating the Digsby Installation Process with Caution

Individuals intending to utilize the latest iteration of Digsby should proceed with careful attention during the installation phase. This is to prevent the inadvertent inclusion of unwanted, supplementary software. We will detail the potential pitfalls to avoid and guide you toward obtaining the streamlined version, free from unnecessary additions.

Important Update: Recent findings indicate that even the ostensibly “clean” version of Digsby incorporates bundled software. Instructions for disabling this are provided, however, complete uninstallation may be the most prudent course of action.

The Prevalence of Extra Bloatware During Installation

Upon initiating the installation, users will encounter a splash screen indicating preparation for InstallIQ. Subsequently, the initial agreement must be accepted to commence the Digsby installation process.

Acceptance of these terms and conditions is a prerequisite for the proper functioning of this installation manager.

A series of screens will then appear, presenting additional software InstallIQ proposes to install on your system. In our testing, all such “special offers” were declined.

A total of seven such attempts were observed during the process.

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Further Attempts to Alter System Settings

As a final step, the installer attempts to designate My.Freeze.com as your default homepage. It is crucial to ensure this option is unchecked.

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Furthermore, My.Freeze.com receives a suboptimal rating from WOT (Web of Trust), indicating potential security concerns.

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Should you inadvertently accept the installation of all offered software, a cascade of prompts will appear post-installation. These prompts are simply reorganized for visibility.

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Obtaining the Clean Installation Version

When accessing the Download page on the Digsby website, a prominent “Download Now” button is displayed. However, small print beneath the button reveals that InstallIQ manages the installation process.

To acquire the clean installation, click the smaller “Click Here” link.

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Distinguishing between the two installer icons can also aid in selecting the correct version.

InstallIQ Version

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Clean Install

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Disabling Research Data Collection

Even if a clean installation is achieved, Digsby engages in “research” activities using your computer. This functionality must be disabled.

Navigate to the “Support Digsby” item in the menu:

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Then, locate “Help Digsby conduct research” and click the “Disable” button.

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The Terms of Service reveal that Digsby conducts research projects and even performs web searches utilizing your computer resources. This practice is considered undesirable.

Conclusion

While many software providers include offers for toolbars or similar additions to monetize their free software, the extent of bundled software with Digsby is notably excessive. We encourage you to share your thoughts on this matter by leaving a comment.

Download the Clean Version of Digsby (at your own discretion).

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