Free Software – It’s not always “free”

When it comes to downloading software, it is best to ask an expert. There are plenty of safe/reliable software options available. Making the right selection could save you from a big mistake. 

Downloading software to your computer or your phone from unknown sources can be very risky. Around every corner there is a software provider offering you the ability to do great and wonderful things just by clicking that download button. But what is the catch? How is it possible that someone spent the time, money and resources to create this software, and they want nothing for it?

Paywalls

Often when you download a program or app the advertisement will say “free to download” or “free to install”. This doesn’t mean that it is free to use. Most often, many features, or even the ability to do anything of consequence in the software will be locked down until you pay. You can spend hours of valuable time looking for a free solution when there simply isn’t a free option. Find reputable software and pay for it. The developer deserves to be compensated for a quality product.

Spyware

Nobody reads the fine print when installing software. That said, the devil is often in the details. If the company producing the software isn’t looking to be compensated by you, then you should expect that someone else is providing that compensation.

Your information/data is valuable, and companies are willing to pay for it. Spyware can track almost anything on the device in which it is installed given the right access rights/permissions.

Malware

If being spied on isn’t bad enough, there are programs that have malicious intent floating around the Internet. Bad actors create software, publish it online offering something of value for free and wait for someone to take the bait.

Once installed, malicious software could track your online activities, provide a back door into your computer, or even record your keystrokes, including passwords. Really, once installed the possibilities are limitless.

The take away

When it comes to downloading software, it is best to ask an expert. There are plenty of safe/reliable software options available. Making the right selection could save you from a big mistake.

• Cybersecurity
• Data Privacy