Spyware is dangerous to the health of a computer, and it can send your private information back to scammers who can break into your accounts or steal your identity. There are thousands of commercial programs that can be used to protect against malware (malicious software), but consumers can also use free anti-spyware that works just as well.
Lavasoft Ad-Aware
Ad-aware is anti-spyware software that removes any spyware that it detects on a hard drive. It automatically checks for and updates its virus definitions to stay on top of new infections. Ad-aware gives users the option to have the program run in real time. This means that it is active in the background, checking for and preventing infections. This software protects against dialers, data mining, Trojans, key loggers and malicious software.
Spybot Search and Destroy
Spybot is often used with Ad-aware to defend against malware and spyware. It has two modes. The first walks new users through setup, and the other is for advanced users to configure. Spybot protects computers from spyware, and it also blocks programs that try to track what you do online. Another option lets users undo changes if the removal of a spyware program causes problems on their computer.
Windows Defender
Defender is a free spyware and malware detection tool that prevents pop-ups and stops malicious code from trying to steal your information or changing browser settings. Windows Defender protects hard drives in real time and blocks or removes unwanted code and software without distracting you from your work. Defender is free for anyone who uses Microsoft Windows.
SuperAntiSpyware
SuperAntiSpyware is a free program that offers advanced protection from rootkits, worms, rogue software, spyware and malware. It will not clash with anti-virus programs that you may have installed on your computer, and it uses very little system resources. It can provide real-time security, and SuperAntiSpyware can do quick scans or a thorough check of all your files. It can also be set to check your files when the computer starts up to catch any hidden spyware that tries to take over at start-up.
Tags: programs that, against malware, check your, check your files, Defender free