This is nothing new, but clauses like this have always irked me.
From the End User License Agreement of the new Microsoft Messenger:
“2. HOW WE MAY MODIFY THIS CONTRACT.
We may change this contract at any time. You must review this contract on a regular basis. You can find the most recent version of the contract at ‘http://messenger.msn.com/Help/Terms.aspx’. The changed contract is in effect right away. If you do not agree to changes in the contract, then you must stop using the Service. If you do not stop using the Service, then your use of the Service will continue under the changed contract.”
It is absolutely ridiculous that you need to monitor a multi-thousand word EULA for modifications on a regular basis. Basically, they’re telling you they can change the agreement at any point, they don’t have to tell you, and when they’ve inserted that bit about selling your personal information, it’s too late.
Total bullshit. I realize I don’t HAVE to agree, and don’t HAVE to use the product, but how hard is it to notify people when the terms change? Really. Note that I’m not singling out Messenger here; these clauses are pretty common in user agreements, especially for online services.
Comments
2 responses to “This should be illegal”
doh… i never read those things.
i wonder if i’ve signed away my first born yet.
Thats the problem … almost no one does – and they know it … AND … half the time you can’t understand it even when you do try and read it.
What I hate is writing these when I release stuff. I hate reading them, but writing is worse … and they are needed to protect you. GAH!