Selling With Tacky Scare Tactics

We recently received a newsletter from a popular software developer. The gist of this article was to scare readers into thinking that Windows XP firewall was inadequate for preventing outbound traffic. Well, here you read it:

"Why is the Windows Firewall not cutting it? It only filters INCOMING traffic. That means if malware has compromised your PC, it is able to SEND OUT out your credit card data, and all other personal info. That's right, the WinXP "firewall" does not stop that! But for a limited time, instead of the normal $19.95, the ------------------- is 50% off, and it DOES filter both in- AND outgoing traffic. The ------- two-way firewall keeps hackers out and your private info inside. And of course it works great with -----------. Now you can have the ------------- for just $10.00, but only for a limited time, so hurry and buy it now..."

(name of product and developer removed by us)

This is a tacky and dishonest way to promote a product. Scaring people into believing that without this product their credit card data is going to be flying off to servers unknown is reprehensible. It is bunch of fictional hyperbole being passed off as fact.

One part of this pap is true -Windows XP does provide only inbound detection. But if you're using a good, updated anti-virus, a good updated anti-spyware program (or two) and you keep your Windows updated, how are these nefarious programs supposed to furtively infiltrate your computer, be installed, and then start sending your credit card data all over the Web?

If what this company claims it true, then the damage has already been done and your credit card data has already been sent to places unknown.

It's a shame that any well-known software developer stoops to such callow methods to hawk its software. The fact that they have reduced the price by 50% tells us how well it is not selling.

Scare tactics sell, no doubt. But any company who uses this kind of exaggeration, fear-mongering, and snake oil sales technique does not deserve your business.


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