Facebook bans spyware application

 

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By Matthew Sparkes

Posted on 8 Jan 2008 at 08:26

Facebook has banned the Secret Crush application, which was accused last week of attempting to install Zango spyware on users' PCs.

"Facebook is committed to user safety and security and, to that end, its Terms of Service for developers explicitly state that applications should not use adware and spyware. We have contacted the developers and have disabled the Secret Crush application," says a Facebook statement.

However, Zango claims that it has had no success in repeating the results shown in the Fortinet security advisory, which made the initial claims about attempted spyware installation.

"Fortinet's 'Facebook Widget Installing Spyware' advisory is blatantly untrue. The falsification of a security report is absolutely irresponsible and reprehensible. Fortinet should do the right thing and correct its advisory," says Keith Smith, CEO of Zango.

Despite claiming that it represents no threat to security, Zango has released a statement denying any involvement with the application.

"The Secret Crush widget is neither a Zango application nor is it affiliated with Zango in any way. Zango does not own it, did not manufacture it, and did not bundle software with it."

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