using: Avast version: 19.3.2369 (build 19.2.4186.445); System Mechanic version 18.5.1.208; Windows 10
Received pop-up ‘Bad Reputation’ flag from Avast regarding System Mechanic’s Privacy Guardian and Bypass add-ons for Firefox (v. 66.0.2).
background: Have used System Mechanic for years, no problem. From searches/reviews all indications are that SM’s security efforts are good, and that the software is reputable and browser extensions are secure (chief complaints about SM/Iola were on its poor customer service and aggressive promotion and billing/renewal.)
Problems:
- Avast gives no information (or link) about the reasons for flagging or what caused the flag.
- Search of previous past topics (latest were from 2017) in Avast forum had no response from Avast.
- Complaints on Avast and other forums seem to indicate errors in Avast criteria for flagging other software.
My Actions: Initially removed PrivacyGuardian and Bypass as advised by Avast; searched online forums and reviews about flagging of browser Addons; plan to reinstall SM Addons in the absence of more information.
Request: A response from Avast to this post. More information from other users and moderators on this problem and what to do about it.
Unrelated complaint: the additional captcha verification of posting topics and replies in this forum is obstructive. The captcha letters are also excessively difficult to read, and the ‘listen’ feature requires additional downloading of an audio file, which can be equally difficult to understand. I have never encountered another forum with a second verification beyond the initial login authentication. This all appears to be an unnecessary attempt to defeat the purpose of having a forum and a convenient way for members to make suggestions or ask for help. I also note that even after one has successfully passed the captcha test, previewing one’s post will require another captcha entry to post. Why such barriers to simply posting something?