Warning about Coupon Printer Software

[TeriB]

My boyfriend works in IT and had a fit today when I told him I'd needed to download printer software from some of these companies in order to print their coupons.

He says that there is no need for companies to make you use their special software in order to print - but it does allow them to put 'spyware' type stuff on your computer to track where you go and what you look at. He also said that if you are going to download coupons from sites that require you use their special software, you do not use that computer for banking, bill paying, or buying anything online.

[NielsenFanGirl]

Good advice. Many of those programs do contain spyware. Even if you didn't download these programs, it is important to clear your cache on your browser once in a while. This is to prevent spyware build up over time.

I would recommend you to use CCleaner. It's one of the best at doing this.

http://www.piriform.com/CCLEANER

[ashokia]

Yes, I downloaded the coupon printer for the Cottonelle coupon and the next time I ran my anti-spyware software, I had eleven entries under "coupon bar". I sent an email complaining to the company about this and I got an automated reply that they were sorry I couldn't get the printer to work and they would mail me a coupon. >_<

From now on I will just email the company and ask for a coupon instead.

[bobbie1960]

Thanks for the advice...

[KrazE]

Sorry but I'm going to disagree here. Yes, there are free installs that contain additional junk that CAN be spyware, but typically free software contains ADWARE (there is a difference).
The coupon printer software for the bulk of printables that we use here from SC is fine and it is not "spyware". Yes, some of those ....free... "spyware" scanners tag it, but that is done for reasons I'm not going to get in to.

I have been in the IT business for many years, 4 of those years I specialized in Virus/Spyware/Adware at the height of the boom of infections (more people have become aware these days thankfully) and I have been certified as a MCSE (Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer) for more than 6 years; so I'm not blowing smoke out of my...

Anywho, I joined this site for the savings and not computer debates so take it as you wish; but please remember that misinformation can do harm as well.