Panicware's Pop-Up Stopper software is a free utility distributed to ISPs that is designed to stop annoying pop-up Internet ads.

by Wayne Kawamoto [September 4, 2002]

Panicware Inc., a developer of PC software solutions, announced the launch of its Pop-Up Stopper ISP Distribution Program. The company's Pop-Up Stopper utility is designed to be an Internet pop-up control solution that prevents pop-up ads and functions as a toolbar within Internet Explorer.

According to the company, Pop-Up Stopper gives Internet control to consumers. Users may configure Pop-Up Stopper to prevent pop-up and pop-under ad windows from appearing, and pop-ups from specified web sites may be viewed by clicking and configuring an option on the utility's toolbar. By allowing ISPs to distribute the utility to their subscribers, Panicware claims that it will make the Internet a less annoying place.

The company says that its Pop-Up Stopper offers advanced options that allow pop-up advertising windows to only appear at selected sites. In addition, the company offers "Sound Packs" that lets users play sound effects when the utility prevents a pop-up ad from appearing.

The company says that its Pop-up Stopper offers the following benefits:

• Stops annoying pop-up and pop-under ads from appearing
• Saves bandwidth by stopping ads before they load
• Acts as a firewall for pop-up and pop-under ads
• Allows pop-ups from specific user-selected sites
• Allows any pop-up to appear by holding down the CTRL key
• Tracks and displays statistics for the number of pop-up ads blocked

"We've been protecting consumers against Internet pop-ups for several years," said Matina Fresenius, CEO of Panicware. "We are pleased to be able to offer our technology free to Internet Service Providers, as they are in touch with Internet users and are often the first to receive consumer complaints about pop-up ads."

Pricing and availability
Interested Internet Service Providers may visit Panicware's website for details about the various program options. All providers must apply for acceptance and be approved for the Pop-Up Stopper Distribution Program via Panicware's website.

The product is priced at $39.95 to retail end-user customers.

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