Windstream Hijacking Firefox Google Toolbar Results

Most Internet Service Providers (ISPs) out there have now implemented some form of Domain Name System (DNS) advertising redirection, which redirects users who type in nonexistent or misspelled URLs to an ISP-branded search portal. The technology allows ISPs to create an additional revenue stream off of your lousy typing. Some ISPs have at least done a good job implementing the technology, giving users "clean" DNS servers, some extra DSL tools, and working opt-out mechanisms. Others haven't, implementing opt out solutions that are cookie-based and often just don't work very well, rushing right for the cash reward without offering consumer value. Windstream implemented DNS redirection ads back in 2008, and only after some complaining from our users did they offer users clean DNS servers. Since then however, Windstream's DNS redirection appears to have gotten rather ambitious, and according to user posts in our Windstream forum, has started hijacking Firefox Google toolbar results -- even if users are using OpenDNS or an alternative DNS provider.

Free Press released a statement saying, "We hope the FCC will investigate Windstream's practices immediately, and move expeditiously to pass open Internet rules without loopholes allowing pernicious activity such as the alleged search engine hijacking."