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How to remove KB905474 (and why you might want to)
If the WGA Notification Tool ("Priority" Update KB905474) is giving you problems, such as telling you your Dell-installed Windows operating system is not 'genuine', or if you are concerned about this update 'phoning home' to Microsoft, or if you just don't like the idea of MS foisting this beta software on you (disguised as a critical update), be advised there is a free utility to uninstall this update: RemoveWGA.exe
You can download it from here:
http://www.firewallleaktester.com/removewga.htm
http://www.firewallleaktester.com/removewga.htm
I can confirm it works, without causing any problems downloading subsequent updates from MS (so far). Note that it only removes the WGA Notification, not the WGA Validation Tool. A full discussion on this update, and on this removal tool, can be found here (see the post by 'Donna'):
http://www.dozleng.com/updates/RemoveWGA-v101-Released-t10081.html
http://www.dozleng.com/updates/RemoveWGA-v101-Released-t10081.html
For some more background info on why you might want to remove this update, see this:
WGA is spyware:
http://www.windowssecrets.com/comp/060615/#story1
WGA is spyware:
http://www.windowssecrets.com/comp/060615/#story1
msil217
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June 22nd, 2006 23:00
chasbox
549 Posts
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June 23rd, 2006 16:00
Hi joe
I am still getting Page cannot be displayed. Thanks
chasbox
549 Posts
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June 23rd, 2006 16:00
joe53
I can`t get through on your first link.
So i blocked access to the net using my Mcafee Firewall.
joe53
5.8K Posts
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June 23rd, 2006 16:00
chasbox:
The site was down for maintenance, and is now back up.
joe53
5.8K Posts
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June 23rd, 2006 17:00
The author of this tool, gkweb, is in the process of transferring his site to a new webhost.
For anyone concerned about downloading/installing this tool, note the qualifications under his sig:
http://www.wilderssecurity.com/showthread.php?t=135257&page=3
chasbox
549 Posts
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June 23rd, 2006 19:00
joe
I downloaded the tool from here and ran it. I know it worked because right after reboot
up popped Updates are ready for your computer. Gee i bet you can`t guess which one.
Thank you
http://thesystemadministrator.com/n1-11.html
joe53
5.8K Posts
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June 23rd, 2006 19:00
Nice find, chasbox!
After this bit of deception by MS, I disabled automatic updates, and get them all manually using the "Custom" button. That particular update is now banished- or at least 'hidden'.
No doubt MS will find a workaround sooner or later...
joe
chasbox
549 Posts
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June 23rd, 2006 19:00
Hi joe
I always use Custom I then checked do not show this update again.
We will see what happens next. You`re right MS will try something else.
Message Edited by chasbox on 06-23-200604:45 PM
msil217
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June 23rd, 2006 21:00
Yes, I believe that WGA spyware will eventually be mandatory, it will be "grandfathered" into a critical update, or service pack. The only possible protection, besides not installing the updates, is using a Firewall like Zone Alarm to prevent programs from "phoning home".
1984, people.:smileymad: