Netscape Communications announced yesterday that it will revise
a program that some users of the Netscape Navigator browser have
downloaded from the company’s web site so that it will cease
collecting data about other download choices made by its users.10 Aug 2000
A class action lawsuit is being brought against Netscape in respect of SmartDownload, alleging that the software violates federal privacy laws. The program is designed to make it easier for users to download large files but also informs Netscape of the type of file being downloaded by the user. SmartDownload is not bundled with Netscape Navigator, but it is available as a free download to users.
A spokesman for Netscape, which is owned by AOL, said that neither Netscape nor AOL ever looked at the information. However, under the US Electronic Communication Privacy Act, the lawyer for those suing Netscape says that it is illegal for Netscape to collect the information in the first place.
According to a report in The Wall Street Journal, a hacker has found a flaw in Netscape Navigator that means hackers can access a victim’s computer and download information without warning. AOL is said to be working on the problem after the hacker alerted them to it.