BBC: Google warns (with pop-up) on 'unsafe' websites

[DeepModem Mom]

Google warns on 'unsafe' websites


Google has started warning users if they are about to visit a webpage that could harm their computer.

The warning will pop up if users click on a link to a page known to host spyware or other malicious programs.

The initiative comes out of a larger project cataloguing programs that plague people with unwanted ads, spy on web habits or steal personal data.

Google is one of several companies trying to act as an "in-flight adviser" to ensure people stay safe online.

The warnings will be seen by anyone using the search engine who clicks on a link to a site identified as harmful by the Stop Badware coalition....

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/5251742.stm

[Vidar]

1. Good for Google.

[mcscajun]

2. Earthlink and Firefox have both provided this functionality for some time.

So Google is finally getting on board. Big Whoop.

[peacetalksforall]

3. Which makes them more vulnerable for takeover by political-

operatives?

[denverbill]

5. I thought of that too.

But I then figured that if a site, like DU, was targeted by Google politically, DU's operators would see or hear about it immediately from their readers, and if Google didn't immediately unblock the site, they'd have a really nice lawsuit brought on their butts.

[Options Remain]

4. I cant wait for it to pop up on Microsoft.com

honestly there isnt any page out there I've seen that does less damage.

[grilled onions]

6. Anyone Use McAfee Site advisor?

It does a decent job as you scroll thru possible sites you want to go to. Green,yellow,red is their color warning system and will even warn when a site will take your email addy and "post" it where spammers can get their paws on it.