Even so, most BBS users double-check the sysop by running virus detection programs on every piece of software they download. Microcom, for example, proudly admits its Virex-PC program came from the mind of a shareware author. It seems so plausible . You can get a virus if you share software. Shareware thrives on people who share software.
Bulletin boards carry a lot of shareware.
Therefore people assume they account for a large number of infections. Experts label their assumptions as fact . Retail stores tell it to customers . Software stores make money from retail software. Many companies need to control incoming software so they can standardize on specific packages and deter software piracy.