This post originated from an RSS feed registered with Web Buzz by Robert E. Barksdale. Original Post: Need a Cookie Today? Feed Title: mozKit Feed URL: http://www.contegix.com/blog/?flavor=rss Feed Description: Gecko and the Bean: A look at Mozilla, Java and other open solutions from an OS X user's perspective. Latest Web Buzz Posts Latest Web Buzz Posts by Robert E. Barksdale Latest Posts From mozKit

Having been a long-time user of Netscape mail, I logged in to check my mail today. However, today was different. I was greeted with screen that wanted my "name, rank and serial number." Keep in mind, that I have done my duty before and provided the information required at the time of initial sign-up. Why are they asking for this again? Why are they holding my mail hostage until I provide them my personal information? Before submitting my information, I did the responsible thing, and decided to check out the Terms of Service and Privacy Agreement. Very interesting reading. In the Privacy Agreement is a list of companies that track information about your internet travels. They are:

• Atlas DMT
• DoubleClick
• MediaPlex
• PGI
• Dynamic Logic
• Millward Brown IntelliQuest
• Bluestreak
• Poindexter
• CentrPort
• Jupiter Media Metrix
• X10

Well, I decided not to check my Netscape account this morning. I will be re-accessing the need for that mail account this week. Privacy is important to me and these type of practices get under my skin. What do you think? Are they essential to our internet experience? Do they enhance it in any way?

Sorry Netscape, I don't feel like having a cookie today!