EmailSpyware detection and removal are the most important considerations. Compatibility with other security programs is also critical. Anti-spyware software should include the following:
- Real-time blocking and background monitoring that occurs before spyware is downloaded or installed. It is far easier to prevent spyware from installing in the first place than to clean out an affected system after the fact.
- Automatic spyware definition updates. Some free tools require manual updates.
- Restoration/rollback capability is a good feature if legitimate application components are inadvertently deleted. With this feature, components can be restored from quarantine so that the application will work again. Some applications may not work without their spyware components.
- Automatic scan scheduling allows you to set the day and time for automatic scans. Alternatively, you can instruct the software to run scans at startup or shutdown.
- Threat-level description and severity analysis in the user interface allow you to make good decisions about what components to ignore, quarantine or delete. The description gives information as to origin or function.
- Support features including online help, forums, e-mail support and free telephone support. Given the reported difficulties some users have in getting anti-spyware utilities to upgrade cleanly or play nicely with other applications -- particularly security applications -- good product support can be crucial.
Types of spyware and adware
"Malware" is an encompassing term that includes viruses, spyware, adware, worms, Trojan horses and other computer afflictions. According to a Consumer Reports survey, spyware infection rates are decreasing but still caused 566,000 people to replace their computers in the first half of 2008.
Clicking links in pop-ups or viewing e-mail messages with graphics or HTML can invite spyware into your system. Spyware is often bundled with useful or entertaining software, such as games, and social networking sites like Facebook are increasingly being targeted. Most spyware comes from the Internet, but removable media is another source.
There are several signs that spyware is on your computer system. Pop-up ads may appear whether or not you are browsing the Internet, your browser's home page may be reset to a page you have not chosen, your Internet connection may be markedly slower, or you may notice new items in your startup menu. Some spyware and adware are browser plug-ins in the form of toolbars, which enable advertisers to redirect your home page. Many add unwanted bookmarks. More rarely, spyware can include a remote administration tool that can allow an attacker to control your computer. Spyware in the form of a key logger can record your keyboard strokes for later retrieval, but these are rare.