Malware, Adware and Spyware

[Bharat Nain]

If nothing above helps, Backup your data, Re-format. Then, don't put back your data, make sure its virus+ad-ware proof.

The greatest advice I can give: WATCH THE WEBSITES YOU GO TO.

Even what you think is "Safe" websites, might contain the worse ad-wares/spyware. Softwares such as Ad-aware, Spybot, etc. help a lot in cleaning, but sometimes, manual-editing/re-formatting is the only choice. Some get infected so strong, they are literally sending out vital information you and your computer to whoever...

Another great idea is to use Mozilla Firefox or any Mozilla browser. I have read articles of IE containing more than 30 un-fixable holes(by Microsoft) in IE. So basically, Its so easy to hack in thru IE. One famous instance is, remember those things in AIM/AOL Buddy Profiles saying "I can't believe I found your picture here, HAHAHA". That thing installed thru IE without your knowledge. All you did was go to the site and choose a buddy picture.

Also, If you don't use these, disable them: UnPlug 'n Pray and Windows Messaging system. Go to www.grc.com to get softwares to disable them. They will reduce spyware/crapware to a good extent. That site also has other good stuff you might want to look at.

A Firewall of some sort is essencial. If you don't have one, your computer is basically wide open. I personally use ZoneAlarm and it works just fine.

So if you are in a situation where you can't get rid of spyware:
1) Backup Important data
2) Re-Format computer
3) Check backed up data for virus/spyware etc.
4) Get your data back up on your computer(duh)
5) WATCH THE WEBSITES YOU GO TO

Number 5 is the key. Good Luck