Infected With Spyware? Just Throw Away the Computer.
July 19, 2005
TheInquirer.net reports on one individual's expensive and unique solution to spyware -- just throw away the computer and buy a new one. Yes, computer prices have plunged over the past several years but they certainly haven't reached the disposable price range.
Mr. Lew Tucker (pun opportunity: loot chucker), the proud owner of a PhD in computer science, has had enough with viruses and adware: "I was spending time every week trying to keep the machine free of viruses and worms." According to Mr. Tucker, it was far cheaper and faster to just throw his old PC out and go buy a new one. Faster? Certainly. Cheaper? Probably not.
Lee Rainie of the Pew Internet and American Life Project - a group that researches and studies the social impact of the internet - told the New York Times that throwing out a computer is a "rational response" to pop-ups.
It's good news for the industry, though, as people like Peter Randol seem to think a horde of pop-ups and spyware leaves them "no choice but to buy a new one," thinking a new PC will be much less likely to be infected. Are you hearing this, PC manufacturers? Better get started on some spyware.
