Should you use Java? If you don't need it, don't install it; plenty of Java exploits and vulnerabilities can really make your day unpleasant, not to mention the crapware that Oracle puts on your system whenever you go to install Java.
As Windows users have experienced for some time now, the very company that officially distributes Java is also one that seemingly benefits from a revenue arrangement with Ask.com. Whenever you go to install Java on a Windows machine, you have to resist the urge to blindly click through the prompts to get the installation up and running. If you do, then you're also going to install an annoying Ask toolbar on your system—and make Ask.com your default search provider in your browser. Yuck.
Those installing Java on OS X haven't had to deal with such an issue, but that's all changing now. According to numerous reports, the latest version of Java for Mac now also comes with Ask software—specifically, the "Search App by Ask," which you're asked whether you want to install as part of the Java installation process.
To Oracle's credit, the company is fairly clear about the arrangement in the online instructions for installing Java on OS X.
"Oracle has partnered with companies that offer various products. The installer may present you with the option to install these programs when you install Java. After ensuring the desired programs are selected, click the Next button to continue the installation," reads Oracle's description.
As Engadget notes, Oracle's decision to bundle crapware with Java has led to 20,000+ signature online petition that asks the company to reconsider its decision—a petition that's been alive for more than two years, we should note.
"It is demeaning for a respected corporation such as Oracle to resort to such techniques only to make a small profit. Ask Toolbar hijacks user's default search engine and forwards them to Ask search engine which resorts to various misleading advertisement techniques in order to confuse the unsuspecting users into clicking on their paid ads," reads the petition.
While the integration of Ask.com software into the Java installation program might not rise to the level of, say, a Lenovo Superfish incident, it's still unfortunate to see Oracle doubling down on adware.
For more, see How to Remove the Ask.com Toolbar From Your Browser.
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