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Spy Sweeper

NEW 4.5 stronger. faster. better. 5-star rated. It's FREE!

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PC Security
from Prevx

Protects against new threats that other products don't!

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Spyware Doctor

Awarded spyware and adware killer. 5-star rated!

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Registry Mechanic

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Most Popular Software

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Features & How-Tos

Learn how to protect yourself against the onslaught with these articles and tutorials.

More spyware horror stories
We asked our readers to relay their worst encounters with spyware, and they responded with plenty of hair-raising accounts. This week: How a virtual PC can save your hide.

Legitimizing software ads

CNET Download.com is supporting a new initiative led by TRUSTe that aims to establish a robust set of "good practices" for all downloadable software. Will this finally clean up the maligned adware industry?

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Learn how to destroy spyware using Spybot.
Find out which is the most effective antispyware tool.
Four handy tips for obliterating spyware with Ad-Aware.
Get rid of spyware, no matter what level of computer skills you have.
Scrub out persistent infections with HijackThis.
Keep spyware from misdirecting your browser.
Repel invaders by setting up ZoneAlarm properly.
Know your enemy--consult our spyware glossary.

These programs are the top guns when it comes to fighting spyware.

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What it does:
Ad-aware scans computers for known spyware and tracking cookies, then deletes what it finds.

What it doesn't do:
Ad-aware can only find spyware identified in its definition file, and may not find newer spyware.

Free

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What it does:
Along with scheduled spyware scans, Spy Sweeper's prevention feature catches spyware when it tries to install.

What it doesn't do:
Spy Sweeper's definition file only catches known spyware.

$29.95
Cost

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What it does:
Along with spyware-removal tools, Spybot includes a file shredder and start-up manager.

What it doesn't do:
This program relies on a definition file and so doesn't block or find the latest spyware.

Free

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What it does:
Manual scans remove spyware based on a definition list, and the OnGuard feature prevents spyware from installing.

What it doesn't do:
Spyware Doctor can't find spyware that's not on its definition list.

$29.95
Cost

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What is spyware?
Spyware programs make money for their publishers by reporting your Internet travels and sending you advertisements. Some also report your name, e-mail address, and other personal information.

Are adware and spyware different?
Different people have different definitions for each. CNET calls any program designed to deliver ads or to get marketing information adware. Spyware is a subset of adware, focused on reporting personal information.

How do adware-removal tools work?
Most adware-removal tools act like antivirus tools. They maintain a library of spyware filenames and registry keys, searching for and removing them from your computer.