Even the most cautious computer users are susceptible to malicious programs.
Chances are, Spyware, Adware, or both have infected your computer, but lucky for you, many anti-Spyware programs exist, so many, in fact, that finding an effective program can be difficult. We’ve made the process easy. After testing a wide-variety of anti-Spyware software, we’ve developed our list of the Top 5 Anti-Spyware Programs.

Spyware and Adware, collectively referred to as ‘malware’, negatively affect your computer security, causing slow down, file corruption, and hard drive erosion. Some malware is relatively harmless, simply designed to track your online activity for marketing purposes; other malware is intentionally harmful and can steal important informationsuch as credit card numbers, bank records, and social security numbers.

Unfortunately, even with the most up-to-date firewall and anti-virus programs, every computer’s security is susceptible to Spyware and Adware. The solution: anti-spyware .

In the ever-growing market of anti-spyware programs, it’s difficult to determine which software is effective. As a result, we’ve tested adware and spyware removal programs and determined the following to be the most effective:

The Best. Fast, up-to-date, and effective. We can’t say enough about Xoftspy’s newest addition to their anti-spyware software line.

Straightforward, practical design. A close second.

Although it missed a few critical objects during the scan, still a great program.

As the name suggests, this program successfully tracks down most spyware and adware and eliminates it.

A fast and efficient registry cleaner that removes unwanted programs from your systems registry.

How Your Computer Got Infected:

You don’t have to be “doing things you shouldn’t” in order to contract Spyware or Adware. These malicious programs can be picked up while surfing the internet, reading seemingly harmless emails, or ‘upgrading’ software. Chances are you already have a few if not numerous forms of spyware or adware.

Spyware:

Spyware is local software (on your hard drive) designed to collect your information without your consent. Trojan Horses – back door programs that grant hackers control of your computer – are considered spyware, as are key loggers – programs that track your key strokes – and cookies. Spyware programs are extremely dangerous and can affect your computer’s security and lifespan, and can potentially compromise your personal information.

Adware:

Adware is unwanted programming that installs advertising programs. Some adware redirects your homepage or tracks your information and sends it to interested parties, often for marketing purposes. If you are experiencing abnormal amounts of popup advertising, your computer security may be at risk due to adware.