Adobe was reported to the Deceptive Design Tip Line over bundled software during a download. According to the report, downloading the free version of Adobe Reader always pre-ticks the boxes to install McAfee antivirus at the same time, even though the reporter notes the two are unrelated products. The report describes installing antivirus on someone’s system without authorisation as unethical and unacceptable.
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Adobe: Pre-checked boxes to install unrelated antivirus
“When downloading the free version of Adobe Reader, it always pre-checks the boxes to install McAfee antivirus at the same time. They aren’t related products! To install antivirus on someone’s system without authorization is unethical and unacceptable.”
Disclaimer: examples in the Hall of Shame are generally drawn from public submissions and cited sources; they have not been independently verified and may contain inaccuracies. They are presented as illustrations of design patterns, not findings of fact, unlawful conduct, or intent.