Macworld:
You may not need to read this column for yourself, but read it nonetheless and help those with less wariness take better heed: Don’t download software for OS X from anywhere but the developer’s own website or Apple. Period.
But the experience last week of a user noticing that a download of Skype from MacUpdate was wrapped in an installer that contained adware and trialware reminds me to run the flag up the pole again to remind folks who weren’t aware—and to ask all of you who understand the issue to help your friends, colleagues, and family avoid these risks.
We old-timers remember the days of lots of sites to download software. Sadly, those days are long gone. Tell your friends and family about this article and warn them about downloading software from any place other than the Mac App Store or the developer’s own web site.
It’s not just Skype. Other software has been wrapped by MacUpdate too.
MacUpdate used to be OK. I got bit the other day. Fortunately for me I found a free adware removal tool that took care of my issue. But I did learn my lesson.
that is odd. I do remember when Download.com was a useful site – I guess it may still be – if you are extra careful, though it seems they design the site to be as confusing as possible to ensure the maximum of accidental clicks (and ad revenue?) from their dwindling and broken model.
So we have craptialism that encourages crapitalware – or just crapware if you wish. Pitty craptalism is the best we have done – so far…
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This is sad. MacUpdate has long-been my go-to for finding software for the Mac, both on and off the Mac App Store.