How can I find out if any spy ware / ad ware is on my computer?

Question

Is there some sort of systems check, or really anything I can do on a regular basis to keep my computer running at it's best? Or, that would help me to see potential problems before they get to big?

Answer 1

Run Spybot and Adaware weekly.


Download, update and run Spybot---http://www.safer-networking.org/... . Don't forget to use the Immunize feature.

Download, update and run Adaware---http://www.lavasoftusa.com/software/adaw...

Download SpywareBlaster---http://majorgeeks.com/download2859.html

SpywareBlaster doesn't scan and clean for spyware - it prevents it from ever being installed.

It's main features include:
- Prevent the installation of ActiveX-based spyware, adware, browser hijackers, dialers, and other potentially unwanted pests.
- Block spyware/tracking cookies in Internet Explorer and Mozilla/Firefox.
- Restrict the actions of potentially dangerous sites in Internet Explorer.

Answer 2

4 Programs To Help your Computer Run Better:

1. CCleaner (www.ccleaner.com)
2. Spyware Doctor (www.pctools.com)
3. Spybot Search & Destroy (www.spybot.info)
4. Microsoft's OneCare Online Scanner (onecare.live.com/site/en-US/default.htm)

*Switch if you can*
IE to Firefox
Outlook to Thunderbird
Windows to either Mac OS or Linux

Tips:
1. Change settings in IE to restrict ActiveX
2. Use Spybot's Immunizer - prevents spyware attacks
3. Update software weekly and run scans weekly
4. Do some search online for more resource help.
Visit http://scaplus.blogspot.com/

Answer 3

Your best bet is to download several different solutions and run them at least once a week to scan for them.

Secondly, stop using Internet Explorer and Outlook - instead switch to Firefox and Thunderbird.

Here are some suggestions:
CounterSpy
XoftSpy
Ad-Aware SE
Comodo Firewall
Comodo Anti-Virus
Spy Protector
AVG Antivirus
Outpost Firewall Pro
Zone Alarm - Firewall and Anti-Virus/Anti-Trojan