Zango Loses Case Against Anti-Spyware Firm

Sept 12th, 2007

A judge in Seattle has found that anti-spyware producer Kaspersky can continue to list Zango's software as spyware in its products.

Zango, previously known as 180 Solutions has a history of distributing questionable software. Its most commonly recognized creation is known as Hotbar.

Several months ago, Zango approached SpamButcher to inquire about a possible partnership. The suggestion was that we package their software with the installer for our spam blocker. We quickly and firmly refused.

Judge John Coghenour ruled that Kaspersky's software was covered by laws passed to protect filtering companies from such complaints. Specifically, this case would seem to set precedent that such laws don't only apply to content filters intended to block porn, but also cover anti-spyware software and potentially spam related tools and services.

While software spam stoppers like SpamButcher have not come under significant attack recently, blacklists like Spamhaus have. Hopefully this ruling will grant some much-needed immunity to blacklist providers.

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