subject: Computerdom Hall of Shame: Top Ten Internet Irritations [print this page] Computerdom Hall of Shame: Top Ten Internet Irritations
Actually, if I were to make a comprehensive list of things that irritate me on the Net, I'd have to write at least a hundred (a full quarter of which would be aimed at Facebook, MySpace, and Twitter). But here are ten that just come to mind, in no particular order of 'red rage scaling.' If you are like most of us, I'm sure these irritate you too. There are a lot of advertisers out there whose methods I'll never understand:
1. The never-ending application (you've already completed three pages and have no idea how many there are to go).
2. The 'being asked for credit card information' rouse. Usually happens after you download 'free' software.
3. The 'free download' deception (I'm really on to that). Sure, anyone can download for free. What's even more irritating is when you unintentionally install a cheesy 'annoyware' program that forces you to go into Safe Mode to get rid of.
4. The page that just will not load (other pages load fine- so why do we keep trying?)
5. Error messages- particularly any network error that prevents our completing a transaction, reservation, or application
6. Software that will not install even though we clearly meet the installation requirements (usually the fault of the uploader)
7. The bright flashing animated advertising banner- the one that gives you a migraine headache for the next hour
8. Any kind of 'quiz,' 'Windows has detected that your system has malware,''test your I.Q.,'or arcade game ad. Don't surfers know that these are all single graphic ads with a single link and not interactive java programs? They don't want to help or entertain you, just your money.
9. Sleazy vendors who wiggle their way up to the top of the Google heap. They make their software seem inconspicuous until you download and try it only to find they want your credit card and money. And then they're nearly impossible to uninstall!
10. MIDI files that load automatically with a web page. If there wasn't a hell, man would have to invent one!
