Where to download a FREE spyware remover?

DJ_O · Post by **DJ_O** » Wed 16 Feb, 2005 6:38 pm

I think my computer might be infected by spyware because now when I open internet explorer it goes to an about:blank page with plenty of pop-up (of course my pop-up blocker block them). At least Firefox works fine. I searched the web for finding a free spyware remover program, but when I click on remove spyware it always ask me to buy the software. Does anyone know what is the best spyware remover program avaliable for download on the web?

Post by **benryves** » Wed 16 Feb, 2005 7:10 pm

The best Spyware tool - MSAS

Also, if you just want a quick scan (not as good as MSAS): Spybot is alright.

Basically, just watch out for freeware. They tend to bundle malware in there. I've been using IE6 for a long long time, and have no spyware on my system (nightly scan). However, after installing some freeware, and running a scan straight afterwards, MSAS picks up loads of extra rubbish.

Of course, if you're visiting porn or warez sites, it's your own fault

Post by **Dwedit** » Wed 16 Feb, 2005 7:36 pm

How could you leave out Lavasoft Ad Aware?

Post by **benryves** » Wed 16 Feb, 2005 7:37 pm

Dwedit wrote:How could you leave out Lavasoft Ad Aware?

It's never picked up any spyware on my PC, that's why.

The only thing that MSAS won't pick up on are cookies and the famous "DSO exploits" that Spybot reports but can't do anything about.

currahee · Post by **currahee** » Wed 16 Feb, 2005 9:46 pm

AW was OK.... but its too slow and it doesnt delete all spyware...
Spybot is decent but i've been liking M$' Anti-Spyware program... it's very good especially with the real time scanner. Spybot's TeaTimer is too annoying

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Thu 17 Feb, 2005 3:13 am

SpySweeper, rated best by PC Mag.

Spydoctor, although some say it is spyware within itself. SpyBot detects it. MSAS sucks.

I use 4:

Lavasoft
SpyBot
SpySweeper
Spydoctor

and the SpyBlaster thing.

Post by **Dwedit** » Thu 17 Feb, 2005 4:59 am

Then there's always setting your security settings in IE so low that no activeX can install or run. Then use Firefox, Opera, or something else that doesn't have problems with spyware.

Post by **Kozak** » Thu 17 Feb, 2005 10:08 am

Xoftspy is also pretty good. But I can tell you none of these programs will work for your problem.
Your about:blank page has been hijacked by an extremely vicious spyware. I had that 3 weeks ago (actually had it for 3 months) and I reinstalled my computer I just couldn't remove it.

Search the internet for aboutbuster, CWShredder and HijackThis...there is a very thorough explanation of how to remove it but it's kinda hard. You have to detach from internet and go into SafeMode and mess with 'services' and 'alternative data streams'.

Post by **benryves** » Thu 17 Feb, 2005 10:41 am

Dwedit wrote:Then there's always setting your security settings in IE so low that no activeX can install or run. Then use Firefox, Opera, or something else that doesn't have problems with spyware.

The German release used to come bundled with spyware. Ahem.

If it's MyCoolSearch [or a varient] look in add-remove programs and see if it's listed there. Some malware gets around the legality issues by providing a handy little uninstaller.

Post by **tr1p1ea** » Thu 17 Feb, 2005 11:18 am

I use Ad-Aware ... but most importantly i use Opera which means i havent contracted any spyware in way over a year.