On March 11, 2005 The Federal Trade Commission issued a press release warning consumers about the deceptive marketing practices used by the makers of Spyware Assassin, which is a spyware removal program.

The anti-spyware software company is alleged to have:

• offered consumers free spyware detection scans that “detected” spyware even if there was not any present on their machines; and

• claimed that the software they sell for $29.95 will "remove all spyware programs and files" and "prevent any future breaches" when according to the FTC, the "anti-spyware" software does not remove all or substantially all spyware.

The FTC also say in their press release that the makers of Spyware Assasin used web sites, e-mail, banner ads, and pop-ups to drive consumers to the Spyware Assassin Web site where consumers were then told that they would eventually experience credit card and/or identity theft.

The defendants deceptive claims violate the FTC Act, which bars deceptive claims. The FTC will seek a permanent halt to the marketing scam and redress for consumers.

Source: http://www.ftc.gov/opa/2005/03/maxtheater.htm

If you enjoyed this article, be sure to visit CanadaOne's article knowledge base for more informative articles.