Re: [PCWorks] Free Scan of drivers and versions Before Purchase
- From: "Clint Hamilton-PCWorks Admin-OrpheusComputing.com & ComputersCustomBuilt.com" <PCWorks@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
- To: <pcworks@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>
- Date: Thu, 15 Nov 2007 04:51:00 -0600
I should first point out that the sites I mentioned in my last
post that do the SECURITY scans are totally free scans and the
sites usually don't even sell anything. They also tell you
exactly what's open or vulnerable.
As far as these other types of scans go that check for driver
and app versions, I don't use them because I always check for
myself. I have tested them and they can give erroneous
information, (and flat out lie as you apparently found out), so
it seems the best thing to do is to check the manufacturers' or
vendors' websites yourself for updated versions. (And it's not
really a good idea to update anything that's not giving you any
problems).
What you can do in your case here is just go to the
manufacturers' websites to verify if Version Tracker is
correct, (as you did), then you don't even have to buy it. If
there is indeed an update, and YOU NEED IT, then just download
it from the manufacturer or vendor. Hugh mentioned Secunia
which is good. Belarc Advisor is another one (free) that will
tell you the versions of everything on your PC in one click.
It won't tell you what needs or has an update available, but
you'll at least be able to quickly see the versions of
everything.
Yes this is rampant on the net. I don't know if it's illegal,
but it's certainly immoral and you're not likely to hear back
from them. If you do, I'm sure they'd try and justify it.
It's much worse in the area of anti-malware programs called
"rogue" programs that blackmail trial users into buying their
product, TO REMOVE the malware THEIR PRODUCT INSTALLED! Many
times you can run legit anti-malware scans after installing
said rogue software and they'll find malware the rogue programs
installed. Now that probably IS illegal. These rogue programs
will also tell you of infections that don't exist to scare
users into buying the product.
-Clint
God Bless
Clint Hamilton, Owner
http://www.OrpheusComputing.com
http://www.ComputersCustomBuilt.com
http://Computer-Hardware-Sales-Consumer-Electronics-Sales.com
----- Original Message -----
From: "JWF"
I am a little concerned about the sites that offer a free scan
of computers
claiming to find left behind files etc.
All these scans find files but require a purchase to be able to
correct
these"faults"
I have just used a free scan of Version Tracker Pro that claims
to find out
of date drivers and applications which then requires a purchase
to update
the files.
My scan showed 8 out of date applications 2 of which I was
aware of.
However for the other six I went to to the website for each
application and
found that each was up to date.
I have contacted Version Tracker about this but with no reply
so far.
Are these free scans giving out false information hoping for a
purchase of
the product.
If so then this is dishonest and perhaps illegal.
Would anyone like to give their opinions on this one.
Thanks
John
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