Tuesday, November 28, 2017

HP Installing Dangerous Spyware on Your HP Computers

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If you own and HP laptop or desktop computer, you need to read our first story in the “Desktop and Laptop Tips” section. HP is secretly installing, without your knowledge or permission a software called "HP Touchpoint Analytics Service."

There are reports of computers being overworked, slowing down and overheating. When the software is removed, the computers return to normal. HP says the software will provide greater security and give you peace of mind. I think not. It constantly sends telemetry to HP about your usage. At the moment, no one is quite sure how it is being installed. HP has yet to respond to customer’s complaints.

Using the directions from the article, I scanned both my older HP desktop and my one-year old HP Spectre Laptop. I did not find it on the desktop, but it was definitely there on the laptop. Using the directions from a link in the article, it was easily removed. I would strongly suggest if you find it that you delete it. I also plan to check occasionally to see if it comes back.

There is more good info and tech tips in this edition, so keep on reading. Thanks for your support. -JRC

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