I thought you all might be interested in this. (This forum is read by more folks than internet and effects e-mail too)

In a recent issue of PCWorld there was mention of "clear" hidden java bugs (applets) imbedded in web pages. Some for site tracking (PCWorld) has them themselves and admit it but other sites never tell and sell the info gathered to advertisers and who knows.

Worse some people actually imbed them in other peoples web pages without their knowledge and track people who visit those pages and record that info. Turning cookies off has no effect so unless you have some way of identifying them you're being tracked without your knowledge.

(Other than complaining to a site or not visiting those sites you don't have much control other than at least knowing)

This is the link to the download URL of a hidden bug notification program, "Bugnosis". It automatically loads to your IE. When it's done (1 second) it's installed and running. If you don't see the little bug critter in your IE toolbar just go to toolbar customize and add it. Once the alert window is open you can choose options (right click) and make it appear and notify as you want (sound / visual).

It has a full uninstaller in the right click menu of the alert window so not to worry about getting rid of it.

At the bottom of the alert window is a help file, how to. It's well done.

http://www.pcworld.com/downloads/fil...d,15783,00.asp

After using it for a day I couldn't beleive how many sites use these. Just thought you'd be interested as we all are more than casual PCer's.

PS: I forgot to mention they can be imbedded in your e-mail too.

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"Finest Kind"