Anti-spyware crusader Ben Edelman recently posted a report that documented how he "received a nonconsensual installation of 180solutions Zango software through a security exploit."

Edelman cited a press release from 180 Solutions stating that "Since September, all new affiliates have been required to distribute only the S3-enabled search assistants, while existing affiliates have been given until December 31, 2005, to switch over to the new distribution format at which point no affiliate will receive payment from 180solutions for distributing previous versions of the search software."

S3, short for Safe and Secure Search, is a "new, more secure search assistant technology" touted by 180 Solutions.

Anyhow, 180 Solutions was not happy with Edelman's recent findings, and they've defended their practices, while calling Ben irresponsible, according to TechWeb News.

The retort from 180 Solutions found Edelman to be irresponsible, as they compared his reporting to researchers that disclose bugs on software before a patch is ready.

According to reliable sources, Edelman has also committed irresponsible acts such as neglecting to put out the trash on the appropriate day and going to the express line at the grocery store with more than ten items. Clean up your act, Mr. Edelman!