So you think you've got spyware... [ February 20, 2005 ]

Spyware can slow down your computer, hijack your Web browser, and send your personal information to advertisers. This frequently updated guide has the latest tools and tips to combat this threat.So you think you've got spyware...  Learn how to protect yourself against the onslaught with these articles and tutorials.   Spyware Obstacle Course We take five popular antispyware programs and run them through a grueling gauntlet of the most malicious spyware around. Find out who crosses the finish line first.   Downloads Spyware-removal tools Pop-up blockers  Get rid of spyware, no matter what level of computer skills you have.  Scrub out persistent infections with HijackThis.  Repel invaders by setting up ZoneAlarm properly.  Know your enemy--consult our spyware glossary.     The horror, the horror. Privacy-compromising spyware can send even the most intrepid techies screaming from the room in terror. In our new and ongoing Spyware Horror Stories feature, Download.com readers relate their most painful encounters with spyware and tell you how they eventually exiled it. Researching spyware I really like the Computer Associates Spyware Information Center. Read more >>   Download read review >> 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. Cost: Free CNET Rating:     Download read review >> 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. Cost: $29.95 CNET Rating:       Download read review >> 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. Cost: Free CNET Rating:     Download read review >> 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. Cost: Free CNET Rating: