Latest Version of uTorrent Sneaks in Bitcoin Mining Software
Complaints originating from uTorrent’s official forums indicate that installing the latest version of uTorrent will secretly install a software called Epic Scale on a user’s machine.The software, which has been categorized as a riskware or adware called Epic Scale, comes with the installation of uTorrent if the users do not opt out of the promotion. The software uses the user’s machines to contribute to mining Bitcoins. This results in higher CPU usage and slower computer runtime while users are using their machines. The result of all this is helping Epic Scale mine Bitcoins which contribute to their projects. Currently, 100% of the generated Bitcoin revenue is donated straight to charity. In the future, Epic Scale plans to lower it to 75%.
As a response, users have submitted their complaints and even concluded that they will no longer be using uTorrent. Even users who have used uTorrent for more than five years now have announced their leaving of uTorrent. Users have explained the issue by stating (but not limited to) the following:
“There was no information about this during installation and I did opt out of your other bundled software.” – uTorrent Forums
“I pay very close attention when installing freeware because of garbage apps that get lumped in with installation packages. There was never a warning about it.” – uTorrent Forums
“EpicScale was installed in my computer with the latest update without my permission!” – uTorrent Forums
BitTorrent, uTorrent’s parent company, and uTorrent forum administrators have already responded to the issue by stating that these accusations of the software installing without the users’ permission are not true, and that users are asked to agree to the installation before the installing uTorrent. BitTorrent told The Verge that “There is no silent install happening” and uTorrent Forum administrators have formally responded saying:
“We’ve … double-checked this particular offer, and have determined that it cannot be installed without user approval.” – uTorrent Forum Administrators
However, many users are still complaining that there is no warning about the installation of Epic Scale, even after the forum administrator’s response. One user even demanded a screenshot from the forum administrator of the option to opt out of the installation. What appears to be the case is that there is an option to opt out as stated from engadget:
“I attempted to install the software on my own PC, and can confirm that the software gave me the chance to decline or accept the ‘offer’ — though it could easily slip by a careless user.” – Engadget
