Bugtraq mailing list archives

Re: RealPlayer and Comet Cursor


From: pedward () WEBCOM COM (pedward () WEBCOM COM)
Date: Thu, 9 Mar 2000 19:23:46 -0800


Keela,

Thank you for your message.  I went back and looked at the download page
again, and read every link from it.

It is clear *now* that the CC bundled with RP7 is an innocuous version.

I, like many of the people who have replied to me, glossed over the marketroid
table and just clicked "full download".

Now that the disposition of the CC software is clear, I'd like to ask another
question:  Why wasn't the software removed from my system after I clicked the
"Add/Remove Software" button?

My original message details the leftovers after removing the software.

I believe it would be a good addition to the download page if you stated
"This version does not contains GUID tracking abilities", because it is
only after reading the fine print that this is clear.  Also, you should
update the privacy policy link on the "Comet Cursor" decscription page,
to reflect the RP specific version.

Thank you,

--Perry


Mr. Harrington,

I wanted to respond directly to your concerns regarding RealPlayer and
privacy.  First to set the record straight, the version of Comet Cursor
distributed with RealPlayer does NOT transmit GUIDs.  RealNetworks is
committed to protecting privacy, and we specifically worked with Comet
Systems to ensure that their software met our standards for informed
consent.  We decided along with Comet Systems to remove any GUID from the
version distributed by RealNetworks.  As a result, the Cursor software
distributed with RealPlayer 7 could not be used in any way to track any
individuals' behavior.  In addition, it is very important to understand
that selecting the RealPlayer version with Comet Cursor is entirely
optional during the download process and that Comet Cursor's existence as
part of some RealPlayer bundles is clearly disclosed when you download,
along with links to Comet's privacy statement.

The privacy policy that you quote in your post is not accurate for the
RealPlayer version; please refer to the privacy policy that Comet Cursor
has posted relating to the version bundled with RealPlayer, and to which we
link from our Web site: http://www.cometsystems.com/help/real_privacy.shtml.

I hope that this addresses your questions.  RealNetworks is very concerned
that our privacy practices are accurately described; if you have any
further questions about our privacy policies or practices, please email us
at privacy () real com.

Regards,
Keela Robison
Product Manager, RealNetworks Consumer Products

--
Perry Harrington                 Director of                   zelur xuniL  ()
perry () webcom com             System Architecture               Think Blue.  /\



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