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Beretta1526 said:
The google toolbar collects info on your browsing habits, but Ad-Aware has one that is pretty effective as well and will also protect you from browser takeovers. You have to pay for the upgrade, but at least they aren't into your biz with data mining software.
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Actually, there is the option to disable that 'feature' of the Google Toolbar when you install it. Personally, I choose to disable it whenever I install it.
From
www.pricelessware.org , " NOTE: The Page Rank feature of the Toolbar necessitates a connection to Google. Simply install without the Advanced Features to prevent information on which sites you visit to be sent back to Google. This feature can be enabled or disabled from the drop menu."
I use the Proxomitron for myself for pop-up blocking (and more) but it does require some configuring/tinkering. Because of this, I usually just recommend the Google Toolbar to other people. It works well, requires no real configuration, updates itself automatically, and no longer has to 'report back' to Google.
Pat