Family Historian User Group

I have a relatively new computer. Its OS is Windows 7 Home premium (64 bit).

I have just attempted to download Ancestral Sources V2.0.0 (64 bit) but cancelled the installation when I received a security warning from Windows about this software.

Why should this software pose a danger to my computer?

ID:5389

Was it just the Publisher could not be verified message?

If so that's just because Nick does not sign the exe (buying signing keys is very expensive).

Hi Jane - did not see anything about the publisher. It was something about it not being used very much. Will try again and get the sepcific message.

Message read 'Ancestral Sources V2.0.0 (64 bit ) is not commonly downloaded and could harm your computer'.

That's a new one, I presume it must be your virus checker although why a program which is not commonly downloaded (it's common for Family Historian users), should be assumed to be a problem is anyone's guess.

The message is coming from Smartscreen Filter. At the same time I got the message Norton 360 gave it the all clear.

I'm using IE9 and Norton 360 v5.0

Another good reason to use Firefox. [grin]

Jane said:
Another good reason to use Firefox.

Gulp! You mean Firefox will download anything ?[tongue]

No, but a least it doesn't assume all unsigned programs are unsafe, and just tells you they are not signed.

I just looked up the costs for getting a signing certificate between $400 and $600 per year, Nick would have to get a lot of donations, just to pay for one of those.

Hello,

Think its me being over cautious with my new computer. Will download and install.

Many thanks for your comments.

Yes I agree it is a bit of an alarming message to get when you download an item of software. I suppose it does at least focus the mind of the person downloading it to think whether they really know what they are doing. I'd investigated certificate costs previously because of this exact problem and its just not viable. I know A.S. gets downloaded a lot but only a fairly small proportion make donations(but I'm very grateful to those who do!)

Best wishes

Nick