Ehud's favorite anti-spyware anti-adware programs

THIS INFORMATION IS LIKELY OBSOLETE!!!

WARNING: I created this information in 2005 and updated it in 2007. It is likely way way way out of date. For example while AVG used to be free and easy to install, there are now other options such as Avast Antivirus which I'm told is better.

I still think SpyBot is the best anti-spyware. However, if I could possibly bend your ear... please consider

  1. Don't use Internet Explorer. At all. Just download FireFox from Mozilla and use it.
  2. Don't use Windows. At all. Just download Ubuntu Linux and use it.
  3. If you MUST violate either of the previous, get Spybot Seek&Destroy and use it!!!
  4. Update often and make sure you have the latest revisions and the latest definitions.
  5. It's an arm's race out there. If you don't believe me, read this blog that covers REALLY BAD THINGS that the bad guys are doing on the net.
edited 2009-10-28 2010MST (UTC-0700)

The Simple Method

  • Install AVG AntiVirus (see below for a direct link)
  • Install Spybot (see below for a direct link)
  • Let AVG scan for viruses.
  • Let Spybot scan for adware.
  • Send me a thank-you note.

    • Method for experts

  • Run Lavasoft Adaware (last link on this page)
  • Run Spybot. (second link). Do not innoculate or run teatimer yet
  • Run Hijackthis. (First link). REMOVE EVERYTHING you don't recognize, or where the download didn't come from *.microsoft.com or *.symantec.com etc. that you recognize. LOOK FOR TYPOS OR CLOSE MISSPELLINGS.
  • Run Spybot - activate teatimer and innoculation.
  • Install AVG AntiVirus from Grisoft. Free for personal use. Otherwise contact their site for a licnese.

    • Hijack This

    This utility for advanced users will allow you to see that programs are linked into Explorer and remove them. Since Explorer is what does Windows filesystem work and not just the Internet browsing, this affects everything you do. In other words, if you get spyware, and even if you use an alternative browser, run this.

    Here's a great tutorial.

    Spy Bot

    This program will not only catch most spyware and adware, but it has the ability to "innoculate" against future registry changes and future browser exploits.

    AdAware

    This program will do a better scan... but the innoculate features are for the purchased version only.

    Grisoft AVG Anti-Virus

    Note: They have a free version for personal non commercial use only. Check the license and pay them as appropriate. Here is the link.

    AVG AntiVirus

    Removing Norton's Products

    Norton is a bitch to remove. This utility will remove Norton Antivirus 2003-2007. Download link