StopBadware.org and Consumer Reports WebWatch today are introducing in beta BadwareBusters.org, a new online community for people looking for help removing viruses, spyware and other badware from their computers and websites.
We¹ve seen from our collective experience that there wasn¹t a central place where people with no prior knowledge about "badware," or destructive software, and its effects could go to ask questions and get answers. BadwareBusters.org hopes to fill that need by using a "wisdom of the crowds" model to build a dedicated community of participants.
We hope, as well, that all members of the community will contribute to an ongoing dialogue about badware: how to define it, which applications to watch, how to protect against it, and so on.
The site uses an algorithm-based reputation and rating system to help people identify the most useful content and most helpful users. The idea is for the site to be easy for novices and experts alike, with a community made up of computer newbies to active techies. We hope, as well, that all members of the community will contribute to an ongoing dialogue about badware: how to define it, which applications to watch, how to protect against it, and so on.
We would love to tap your expertise (and/or answer your questions!) and get your feedback on BadwareBusters.org as we pilot the new site. Please get involved in the online community and send us your tips for how we can improve the site.
