Can software risks be regulated into submission?
The issue will get a high-profile hearing next week, when the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) plans to convene a workshop on the dangers of spyware. In a common scenario, such programs might bombard victims with unwanted ads or, more rarely, allow hackers to snoop on Web surfing activities and steal confidential data such as passwords to online bank accounts. Monday’s FTC hearing, which will draw technology executives, lawmakers, and consumer groups from around the country, could be the first step toward federal action against spyware companies, following the path the FTC has previously taken on spam e-mail and other Internet privacy issues. It also highlights rising national concern about this ill-defined category of computer pest. The pitch of consumer complaints about spyware and adware now rivals that of the outcry against spam several years ago, and is prompting response from legislators in Congress and in a growing number of states. “So much stuff is being foisted on people that i
