» How to Remove and Protect Against Spyware «

Intro

I don't fully follow the vagaries of Spyware, but as far as I can tell, the gist is they install themselves on your system either illegally or sneakily and never ever for a good reason. Either it's to get demographics, monitoring your movements, or it's more nefarious means. Either way, it's intrusive, rude and I for one can't be doing with it! A full description of Spyware and Malware can be had at Spywareinfo

The general consensus is to avoid using Internet Explorer and Microsoft Outlook ( / Express) like the plague and that avoids most of the problems, but seeing as some eighty or ninety odd percent of us use these...

I've nothing great to hide but I'm professionally paranoid and besides, it rude and I can't be doing with it!


Here's a few place to get more information and anti Spyware products.

Ad Adware - I recommend trying this, with Spybot below

by Sunbelt Software (Formerly this was 'Pest Control', I believed and was (is) good for Trojans etc. OPSEC Certified too! I'll go over this again shortly when I have more time.
See also: PestPatrol and PestScan - Now part of Computer Associates.
Trial version available, as is a free, online scanner.
Some fantastic white papers and explanatory articles too. Go have a look. Then be afraid, be very afraid.

SpyBot Search & Destroy - I recommend trying this, with AdAware above

Spyware Info - "the spyware and hijackware removal specialists"

Spy Guide - "Your online guide to Spy and Anti-Spy software"

PC Stats have a good beginners article on Spyware too