Finding spyware on the computer?

[Lofunzo]

I've downloaded Ad aware and spywareblaster already.

On its first run through ad aware found over 100 tracking cookies and data miners. I feel so violated...

Just be careful when you do something with the files. Most of the time it's no biggie but I would recommend quaranteening the files and making sure that everything is fine before deleting them. Also, keep in mind that a lot of these instances are basic cookies from sites such as this. These cookies are what enables you to go back to the Cafe without signing back in every time.

[Mookie4ever]

I've downloaded Ad aware and spywareblaster already.

On its first run through ad aware found over 100 tracking cookies and data miners. I feel so violated...

Just be careful when you do something with the files. Most of the time it's no biggie but I would recommend quaranteening the files and making sure that everything is fine before deleting them. Also, keep in mind that a lot of these instances are basic cookies from sites such as this. These cookies are what enables you to go back to the Cafe without signing back in every time.

Thanks. I have quarantined them. Most of them I don't recognize.

[Lofunzo]

If you want to separate a lot of the good ones from the bad ones, try deleting your cookies and then running a scan. I don't mean now, though, as you just did a scan. Try again in a week. Like I said, a lot of the scans are just recognizing your cookies.

[thetongueofire]

spy-aware is pretty good. just do it every few days. doesnt take long.

[StlSluggers]

Nice post.

I want to try this when I get home, but I have one question:

Do those programs run on Macs, too?

My guess is no. That said, I'm not sure that these computer attacks are prevalent on Macs.

Correct me if I'm wrong, but I think the Internet runs pretty much the same on both PCs and Macs in terms of cookies and such. The Mac browser - Safari - does come with a built-in pop-up blocker, but I don't know what else really differentiates it from other browers.

Whatever the case, if the program is designed to implant a special cookie, I would think that the programming would be the same for PC or Mac since both have to use the same language to read the website.

[Rirruto]

Ad-aware and Spybot S & D is the best spyware programs out there. I used to be a computer tech in my dorm last year and you don't understand how many computers I saw that were fixed simply from running those programs. Just make sure you update them before you run them. Also, instead of using Internet Explorer, I suggest using Mozilla Firefox. You will never see a pop-up you don't want again and will prevent you from installing hidden programs onto your computer.

[Amazinz]

For those who use IE and Windows XP the new XP service pack really beefed up protection for IE.

Also, unless you're paranoid about your privacy, tracking and data mining cookies are not that big of a deal.

[Lofunzo]

For those who use IE and Windows XP the new XP service pack really beefed up protection for IE.

Also, unless you're paranoid about your privacy, tracking and data mining cookies are not that big of a deal.

Ahhh. I forgot about mentioning that. If anyone wants the SP2 updates, you can DL them here:

http://download.microsoft.com/downl...935-SP2-ENU.exe

Or, you can order the free CD here:

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/down ... fault.mspx

[Tavish]

A small bit of warning about SP2. You should always keep your OS up to date, but you should at least know what to expect from it.

[DieHardCubbie]

A small bit of warning about SP2. You should always keep your OS up to date, but you should at least know what to expect from it.

Thanks for the link Tavish...