Tag Along Programs
Some program updates, such as Java’s, will also install other things unless you are observant during the update. For example, Java updates are necessary and I always install them. But I really don’t want the Ask toolbar that tags along with them. And I especially don’t want my favorite search provider, Google, changed to Ask.
A recent Flash update also included a tag along.
So pay attention to all the update steps and make sure to uncheck the “Tag Alongs” before completing the update.
Note: Java and Flash updates are important to install because they fix security vulnerabilities.