Proprietary software is not always malware but it is very often malware. So
often that it's a bit scary.
Microsoft example #1
Google example #2
Apple example #3
adobe flash example #4
intel example #5
the list goes very long, but yeah... you are kind of right at least about it
not being the devil, hell and satan,
BUT! and this is a big one, that doesn't mean it doesn't carry hidden risks
of unknown origin. If you cannot see the source code, it is hard to say what
it is doing... such as google chrome. Which is always on even when you close
the browser...
That was why it loaded quicker than firefox back then.
ps, you don't need an antivirus. All you really need is:
gufw = firewall (must be on of course...)
noscript in firefox based web browser (recommended highly)
firetools = which sandboxes your web browser (optional)
That is about it. and then malware will have very little power to fight you
with. at least on the web anyways. :)
although if you need propietary firmware that may complicate your security
more... hard to say.
But yeah, proprietary software while not being pure evil, the developers can
abuse their power easily.
