There are hidden consequences to downloading freeware programs from web sites. The cost of free software is often an agreement to be subjected to a constant barrage of pop-up ads. However, there is a higher price that may be involved – spyware programs that often tag along in download process. Once activated, spyware programs can result in the continual profiling of your web usage, as well as the dissemination and sale of your personal data.
Consumer Web Watch has an informative article on spyware, advice on how to remove such programs from your hard drive, and recommendations on ad blocking sofware.
See also my related posting on iwon.com’s use of spyware.