Why are spyware programs like Virtumonde legal? Why can' the FTC or homeland security do something?

Question

Virtumonde is a pop-up ad generator. This thing is insidious. Once it gets on your computer, it is nearly impossible to remove and re-gnerates itself. Why should Americans have to put up with these spyware bastards putting things on our computer that diminish the value of our investment (computer) and time? The methods to remove this thing are way beyond the average user, so they must resort to wiping the system clean. This should be a crime. Is it? Is is possible to find out who the poeple or company bhind Virtumonde is? Can they fine the people who pay them "per click-through?"

Answer 1

You also need to keep in mind that U.S. law does not extend beyond U.S. territories. I entirely agree that people who create, distribute or make any commercial use of such software mechanisms are nothing more than un-convicted criminals. Stealing some portion of your computer's resources, without your specific permission, is theft. Unfortunately, the only alternatives available to you will not allow you to bring such people to the bar of justice. The virus you mentioned can be wiped out; there are facilities that are available (at no cost) that will do the job.

Answer 2

Just to make a note, if anyone is suffering from a virtumonde infection there is a specialist program available to remove it because ive had it before. I think its called Virtu B Gone or summit. If anyone does need to know what it is then give me a message or something. ( if thats possible lol im new at this)

Answer 3

Sometimes, programs like this are illegal.

And sometimes, they are just annoying but legal -- the lines and issues are subtle -- but basically boil down to whether the company can prove the person (user) has consented to have the program installed -- whether they knew what they were getting in for or not.