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Windows XP Machines
Advanced Steps
Step 1: Create an Everyday User Account
Step 2: Disable Unnecessary Services
Step 3: Spyware Removal Program
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Step 3: Run and Update a Spyware Removal Program

Although not necessarily a virus, Spyware is any technology-such as web site tracking or keystroke logging software-that aids in gathering information about a person without their knowledge. SpyWare is often installed along with popular programs such as KaZaA, GrokSter, iMesh and others. It is also installed by some web sites via pop-up ads and viruses.

In some cases spyware can take over your web browser or generate pop up ads even when your browser has been closed. More definitions and examples of spyware can be found at Spywareguide.com.

Before you can run a spyware program, you need to download it. You can use any program of your choice, but we recommend Spybot Search and Destroy. Follow these steps to download and install Spybot Search and Destroy with its advanced features:

  1. Download Spybot Search & Destroy and save it to your desktop.
  2. Double-click on the icon to install the program. Through the installation, click Next to accept the default responses.
  3. The first time you run the application, a wizard appears. Click Next until Step 7 of the wizard, and then select the Start using the program button.
  4. From the Mode menu, choose Advanced mode.
  5. At the Warning dialog box, click Yes.
  6. In the left window panel, select Settings > Settings.
  7. From the right window panel, scroll down to Automation.
  8. Below Program start, select (check) Immunize on program start if program has been updated.
  9. Scroll down to Web update and check the following:
    • Search the web for new versions at each program start.
      Note:       In the Confirmation window appears, click Yes.
    • Download updated include files if available online.
  10. Close Spybot and open it again to automatically update the program.
  11. Close the program and open it again to automatically re-immunize the computer.
  12. In the left panel, select Tools.
  13. In the right panel, check Hosts File and then click Hosts File in the left panel.
  14. Click the + Add Spybot - S&D hosts list button and close Spybot.

Note: You should repeat steps 10 through 14 once a month to update Spybot and re-immunize your program.

Last Updated: 01/12/07