Warning, do not download and install ExpressDictate

I was out to get a simple MP3 recording software, and I came across ExpressDictate, which is featured in numerous online ads and reviews. In some cases your WOT - if you have this installed (if not, you should get it and help ensure a safer net experience for all) - will reveal that it the sites are bogus.

I happened to come across a download site, which looked authentic outlet for NCH Software. I decided to give it a go with the demo version.

I shouldn't have. The download screwed up my system, but it wasn't just the attempt at phishing or taking control of my software - I did run the installation files through my virus detector before installing - but also a number of deeply suspect activities particular to the program and installation procedure itself.

1) The download was not just Express Dictate, but a series of programs with similar or different names. Far more than I needed or had asked for.

2) The files were distributed across different folders, rather than in the same main folder, as dignified and decent software distributors would have set it up.

3) This was also reflected in the Windows start menu, where the programs installed appeared in between other icons. The only conscious purpose for this would have to be to completely overwhelm and confuse the user.

4) I am not saying you can't trust NCH, or that they are directly involved with the sites that get red flags from WOT, but here's the thing: The software bugged both Windows and my webcam, so I lost control of sound options in the Logitech control panel.

5) I attempted to reinstall the Logitech software using the reinstall option, but nothing... the control screen was locked, and this time the video option also died. No way of moving any of the adjustment bars.

6) Right about then I knew for certain I was being played. For some reason the anti-virus had approved, after sending the files for analysis, but human intelligence needs to be applied now and then. Nothing to do but remove the programs, but...

7) ...no uninstall option in the Start menu, which is a good indicator of fowl play when combined with the other suspicious factors. So, I go to Control Panel and begin to remove the programs one by one, and guess what: It offers a series of panels polling me, asking me if I really want to uninstall it, and why that is.

At this point I am about to explode. There are just too many things about this... too many. So I went to the C: drive and began checking, and guess what... folders from the provider or the people who are abusing the system remained. Manually erase by identifying the name on every folder and file, at the risk of making some fatal error. Annoying.

Then restore the entire OS just to be on the safe side. Now the webcam works again, and I get to have sound in the mic. I don't really care if it is a really weak beta version offered up as a demo, easy to exploit for phishers, or if it is some kind of major scheme - the way the software is configured to set itself up is beyond all criticism.

Forget about it, as the Italians say.