SPYWARE & ADWARE REMOVAL

Avoiding Spyware & Adware Infection

Spyware preys on two main things: vulnerabilities in the operating system and ignorance of the user about how their computer works. By taking a few moments to learn the basics you can go a long way in avoiding spyware.

The Scenario

Spyware manufacturers honestly think they are doing their clients a valuable service.  They don't see what they do as particularly damaging to your privacy. Most surfers might disagree. In fact 87% of users in one study said they had no idea the software was even running on their PC. This is not surprising considering the tactics the spyware companies often use to install their software on your computer.

The Culprits

It will help to define the 3 main categories of software we are dealing with:

1. Spyware - there are two types:
   1. Spyware installed to spy on spouses, children, etc. - essentially keyloggers.
   2. Spyware installed by commercial companies either by download from the internet or bundled with other software and used to collect personal information.
2. Adware -  usually works in conjunction with spyware
3. Trojans - can be picked up through viruses or malicious web sites

Spyware/Adware usually work together however this isn't always the case as in keylogging software installed by a family member.

Free Basic Spyware and Adware Detection and Prevention Tools

Here's a list of free programs to help your defenses:

1. Hijack This - pretty much the de facto standard for sniffing out existing browser hijacks and spyware apps. Doesn't remove anything but lists key processes which you can post in a few spyware forums for seasoned spyware detectives to help you ferret out the bad stuff.
2. Spyware Blaster - this application "immunizes" your system against known spyware offenders so you never get infected.
3. Adaware - free spyware/adware removal tool.
4. Spybot - free utility also immunizes browser settings. Not updated as often as Adaware.
5. TCPView - a more advanced tool. This allows you to see every program connecting to the internet by port.
6. BHODemon - utility that shows all the installed BHO's (browser helper objects) on your system.
7. Zone Alarm - free personal firewall

Turn Off Unused Services

Windows by default has many unnecessary services turned on that can lead to problems. By turning off as many of these unused services as possible you free up memory and make it harder for would be attackers. This can be a critical step and must be approached with caution as turning off the wrong services can impair your computer from working properly. The Black Viper web sites deals with these modifications in depth and is one of the authorities on the subject.

Active X

Active X is the single worst contributor to the proliferation of spyware. By turning off Active X you can shield yourself from most of the common spyware install attempts.  You can do this manually:

In Internet Explorer go to:

Tools > Internet Options > Security  click on Custom Level

Set settings for Active X to "disable".

Blocking Ports

There are 65,000 ports on your machine. Blocking a few of the more vulnerable ones is a good idea. Running a firewall is the best all around answer. Gibson Research makes a few downloadable fixes that blocks a few problem ports - particularly UnPlug n' Pray, DCOMbobulator and Shoot the Messenger are must do's. SocketToMe is also a good one to fix.

This is a good resource for manually turning off a few ports. Be careful as some functions may not work properly if you turn off the wrong ports.

Basically if you run a router between you and the internet and also run a firewall and antivirus software you should be reasonably well protected port wise.

Summary

By doing a few basic tweaks to your machine you are taking an active stance against intrusion of your privacy by spyware companies and hackers. The more you educate yourself about the methods and tactics used the better chances you have of preventing a possible intruder in your computer. This is a very good reference on security How To's to help you get secured.