Software security concerns

[Bill in SD, CA]

Can software you have installed communicate to the software company without your knowledge over the net?

My software is legal BTW. I am just concerned about my privacy and companies tracking my usage and habits.

Thanks,

Bill

certain freeware programs you get from download.com install spyware that reports your surfing habits.

if you run a software based firewall that lets you control what programs are trying to access the internet will give you a good idea on where you stand

but i really dont know a lot of true blue die hard phone home programs. those are mostly just to check to see your software is legit not your surfing habits