"Viruses and worms are no longer the biggest threat to computer users – now it's badware. Badware is a term we use to encompass the broad range of malicious software that is sneaking onto people's computers, including spyware and deceptive adware. It can subvert your computer for the benefit for a third party, frustrate you with unwanted advertising, and even steal your most personal information," says a new Web site, http://stopbadware.org/.
The idea is for users to go to the site to check for malware before they download any programs, and for those who get hit by malware to report it.
According to USA Today: "The initiative is being run by Harvard and the Oxford Institute and is backed by high-tech heavyweights including Google and Sun Microsystems. Consumer Reports' WebWatch is serving as a special adviser."
