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Adware, Malware, Spyware
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@ 27-07-2004 11:36 TheA15 | 1,340 posts
| Hello everyone.
I noticed in this section a lot of problems/questions regarding adware/spyware/malware and how to remove.
I would like to put here explenations, program recommendations and useful sites regarding the matter.
Before Removing anything please read the whole thread.
Spyware:
Spyware is basically application or files that use as a spying tool over your computer. Spyware, like all of them TV/Movies spies, like James Bond, will try and do it's best to stay hidden and away from the user's notice - hence the name spy.
Spyware's actions range from keylogging to tracking:
Meaning that spyware can record every key press you make, every password you enter, every site you access, can record your surfing habits. Usually spyware sends all of the recorded information to third party companies (usually those who dispatch the spyware).
Spyware will do everything (well, depends on how good the spyware is) to stay in your computer, and hidden - It will download files, it will come back AGAIN even though you delete it, no matter how many times - meaning re-installing itself over and over and it will try to run in the background.
How do you get Spyware:
Spyware usually comes bundled with some programs - especially freeware - like the ORIGINAL kazaa (Unlike Kazaa Lite, which has no spyware) or other programs. A lot of times, spyware notice and concent is inserted in small prints in the EULA (End User License Agreement), which is the page that the developers say what their intentions are.
These companies rely on the common fact that the vast majority doesn't read the EULA, thus allowing them to put whatever they want in it.
Another way to get it is through Email hoaxes (which I'll give a link to in the later levels of this thread). Third way is the pop-ups which asks you to accept things (accept them and you're pretty much going to be flooded with Adware and Spyware, maybe even Malware).
How To Remove:
In order to remove Spyware efficiantly, you must use Anti-Spyware softwares. Sure, there are a lot of free programs out there, but not all do the job and not all are trustable and reliable.
I use "Spybot: Search and Destroy 1.3" and "Spysweeper" for cleaning out my spyware.
You can get them through here:
Spybot: S&D 1.3 Download
Spybot: S&D tutorials - Read here if you have problems with using it.
Spysweeper
REMOVAL NOTE:
In cases when the spyware is bundled with software - removing the spyware might cause problems with the software itself, so be careful of what you delete.
EDIT;
New version of Spybot-Search & Destroy:
Spybot search and Destroy 1.4:
Spybot- Search and Destroy 1.4
About EULAs, you can use this program to search or hidden EULA statements by detecting key words.
EULAlyzer
EULAlyzer can analyze license agreements in seconds, and provide a detailed listing of potentially interesting words and phrases. Discover if the software you're about to install displays pop-up ads, transmits personally identifiable information, uses unique identifiers to track you, or much much more.
The Benefits
* Discover potentially hidden behavior about the software you're going to install
* Pick up on things you missed when reading license agreements
* Keep a saved database of the license agreements you view
* Instant results - super-fast analysis in just a second
Another one for malware that's better than AVG for detecting malware (proven in independent tests) which is also free and is the full working version is Avast Home Edition
Avast Home Edition
Also, here is a program that prevents spyware from even entering your computer in the first place, kind of like a bouncer at a nightclub, only for your computer:
Spyware Blaster
Also, remember, if you anti-virus software doesn't have automatic updates, always check for updates at least once per week.
Adware:
Adware is a combination of two names: Advertisment and Software - Meaning that adware is used mainly for advertising. It's less pesky and dangerous than Spyware, but bugging nevertheless. Adware's actions can vary from Logging your actions and sending them to their developers (or destinations) to displaying and popping pop-ups.
Not all Adware is harmful, but does annoy a lot of people.
How do you get Adware:
Adware can find its way to your computer if you install software that comes bundled with Adware (like the orignial Kazaa, RadLight etc.) or through cicking Yes for software installations at untrusted sites or unfarmiliar sites. Make sure you know it's a site that won't do you harm before you click yes and that the software you are installing is bundled with adware.
How To Remove:
Like with Spyware, there are a lot of applications to remove adware, but I recommend using Ad-Aware.
Ad-Aware 6
How To use Adaware 6:
(Note: this was posted also here: CashBack Thing)
1. First of all, you get Version 6 from here: Ad-Aware Version 6. Then you install it.
2. After installation run it.
3. Then, once it runs - Click start. Afterwards you'll see two options - Select the second one and press costumize. Then you will have another screen, where you must choose (green ball) these options:
All red (X) on the first three, and green (V) on the rest. Click Proceed.
Afterwards press "Select" (below Customize) and make sure all of your hard drive is selected (if you don't know how to know if you've done it correct then skip this part).
4. Press Next. The scan will begin.
5. Wait until the scan is over. Once the scan is over, you will hear a sound.
6. Once done, press Finish. You'll encounter a screen with lots of tick boxes and load of names (ok, depends on how much adware you've got on your pc). Right click and select all (or tick them all manually).
7. Press finish.
Note: When the Adware you delete is bundled with a software - it might cause it to stop working.
Malware:
Malware is an overall name for any kind of Malicious code, which is a code that its purpose is causing the computer problems and distortions.
Examples for Malware is viruses like Sasser (or any other kind of virus - including worms) or Trojan Horses.
How Do you get Malware:
Malware is usually implented on sites/applications/mails etc.
Malware can be unleashed on your computer from opening email attachments (usually from senders you don't know) or from downloading files from doubtful places (IE porno/adult content sites).
How to remove Malware:
Malware removal is slighty more tricky, since it can be Torjan horses or Viruses, but here are a few programs:
1. Norton Anti-Virus - One of the well-known anti-viruses. Make sure you keep it updated and have the latest version. Visit Norton's homepage: Symantec.
2. AVG Virus remover - AVG is a free and excellent anti-virus. You can get it from here:
AVG Free Edition - Note: You must register this product, but it's free.
3. Trojan Remover:
Usefull tool for removing Torjan horses from your computer. Get it here:
Trojan Remover Version 6.2.8
For Trojan remover Updates click here:
TR Updates
If you are not sure what you're doing, but still want to get rid of these codes, follow these steps:
You must create a restore point, so incase anything goes wrong, you can go back and avoid the trouble.
To Create:
1. Go to start --> Programs ---> Accessories --> System tools ---> System Restore.
2. Choose the second option, "Create A Restore Point." and click next.
3. Name it.
4. Press create.
To restore your computer:
1.Go to start --> Programs ---> Accessories --> System tools ---> System Restore.
2. Choose the first option, "Restore My Computer To an earlier time" and click next.
3. Choose the restore point you want to go back to (by date). A description of the restore will also be available.
4. Click Next until it restores.
NOTE: Restoring your computer will undo any changes done after the restore point, and in time of restore, the computer will restart itself, so don't panic 
Ok, now back to the Wares.
Now, here are some stuff to read/learn, which can help a lot:
Spyware-Guide - Excellent site about Spyware - Includes easy navigation, names of dangerous codes, companies etc. Highly Recommended.
Spyware Guide - About Malware/Spyware/Adware
More about Spyware
Symantec Support page
Usefull to know - Regarding Email hoaxes - from Symantec
Ok, that's it for this time, I really hope that this helps.
For any questions - Ask me.
Cheers |
| Showing posts 1-25 of 39 | Page 1 of 2 |
| Discussion |
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 0  @ 27-07-2004 11:40 NightHobbit | 23,464 posts
| Thanks Arod! That'll help me with sorting out my computer a second. As it's got loadsa buggs on it. | | 0 @ 27-07-2004 11:41 almightybob | 3,000 posts
| cool thanx  i never understood the difference before.
hope i dont have spyware... my surfing habits could be rather.. *ahem*  ...u no...
so thanx! | | 0 @ 27-07-2004 11:43 andro | 
42,248 posts
| Thanks for posting this thread!
I'd like to add that my personal recommendations for the varous scanners to use for protection are the AVG virus scanner and Spybot S&D. I've been using these products for a long time and I've found them to be extremely effective in keeping my home system safe
Another thing I would recommend for protection is a firewall, especially if you use a high speed connection | | 0 @ 27-07-2004 11:46 TheA15 | 1,340 posts
| Hey.
Andro is right - Firewall is a good thing, but you might want to make sure it's configurable - I myself do not recommend using the default XP firewall - It's not configurable. I myself have Hardware firewall - A router.
Cheers | | 0 @ 28-07-2004 20:48 TenebraruM | 116 posts
| You do like your detail don't you o_O
For those unliberated (ie users of "that" OS from Redmond), another tool which you might want to use is SpywareBlaster, from JavaCool.
http://www.javacoolsoftware.com
It's prevention software, for malware ActiveX, BHOs & tracking cookies. Doesn't block XPI for Necko browsers, though (yet)
I suggest just using both SpywareBlaster & Spybot S&D, along with another (preferably Necko & Gecko based) browser.
Of course, I suggest Firefox
http://www.mozilla.org/products/firefox
Why deal with a mass of spyware adware, malware,, on-page banners, popups & advertisements, when you can prevent them?
Humans have this natural gift: logic. Use it. | | 0 @ 28-07-2004 21:02 TheA15 | 1,340 posts
| Oi Tene, I don't think it's about logic - some people just don't know their way with software or computer defintions etc.
Btw I have never tried SpywareBlaster, so I cannot say, but I know that i'm pretty happy with what I use. Oh and yeah, I recommend FireFox too.
Cheers | | 0 @ 13-08-2004 13:04 TheA15 | 1,340 posts
| Bump 
Cheers | | 0 @ 23-08-2004 18:14 cLydE_mhSs89 | 254 posts
| Thanx Arod!I hope this thread help me solve my problem.My programs are running to slow. | | 0 @ 23-08-2004 20:31 TheA15 | 1,340 posts
| No problems dude. Btw, check you email... I sent the Explorer thing.
Cheers | | 0 @ 03-09-2004 17:19 Army_Girl_Jamie | 2,325 posts
| I wanted to add something to the original post...
This might be found somewhere else, but, quite frankly, I can't be bothered reading through all 350+ threads in this category, so I'm posting it here.
BHODemon
BHOs are Browser Helper Objects - these are programs that attach themselves to your browser; they have random links to various crap that most normal people don't want.
On my computer, I have Begin2Search.com Bar - this is a load of crap, and I don't want it there. It has random links to things like Free Contacts (thanks, I have 20/20 vision), a dating service (not only is the icon itself offensive (a woman's chest), but I'm married!), et cetera.
In order to get rid of the BHO, I downloaded a program called BHODemon. It scans your computer, and identifies all BHOs on your system, tells you where they're stored, and if they're malicious or benign. It also allows you to disable them - though it does NOT delete them. (But, since it tells you where to find the file, and will even open the file for you, it's not hard to do it yourself.)
So...yeah - that basically sums up what I was gonna say. As far as finding BHODemon, I'm too lazy to go back and find the link I used, so I'll just tell you this: Type BHODemon into your search bar, and click okay. Then click one of the links.  | | 0 @ 03-01-2005 03:06 pesh_is_fresh | 1,053 posts
| I was wondering if anyone knows how to get rid of xlime.offeroptimizer pop ups. I have never had pop ups b/c i don't dl songs or anything anymore, but then all of a sudden i got this. I looked at stuff online...used by adaware and spybot search and destroy. neither worked. | | 0 @ 25-01-2005 05:31 xXOBXONEXx | 4 posts
| so what the hell are you supposed to do when your pop-ups start coming up in French??? I dont know how to translate it to remove it???? guhhhh  | | 0 @ 25-01-2005 05:41 ellessilver | 2,223 posts
| Thanks - those explanations clear up a lot for me... Maybe the computer will start running a bit faster now!  | | 0 @ 07-02-2005 20:32 guitar_legend | 76 posts
| one problem. ad-aware doesn't seem to be working for me it just says "Error 11 - no ASPI!" whats an ASPI??? | | 0 @ 30-03-2005 07:12 kians_angel | 
6,041 posts
| thanks for this thread! i still have a problem tho! i have two viruses (just from doing normal stuff on the net!) and i dont know what or where they are! please please help!!! | | 0 @ 30-03-2005 20:24 slim_gary | 7,286 posts
| Arod you are in every way "The Man" | | 0 @ 30-03-2005 20:28 Pandora | 
22,852 posts
| this is a really good program to use too.. just to make your computer run faster... everytime I just down my computer I use it..
Internet Eraser
it doesn't reallly have anything to do with spyware, it's just good for your computer.. especially if you have someone that is looking at what you are viewing online.
it's almost the same as the 'erase tracks' on the Microsoft Spyware Beta.. but it erases more..
rockon
tabitha | | 0 @ 09-01-2006 06:51 dudekrulz | 3,618 posts
| Needs to be updated! | | 0 @ 09-01-2006 06:51 dudekrulz | 3,618 posts
| Thread = needs updating | | 0 @ 09-01-2006 06:53 Schatzi | 
21,127 posts
| Sure, but if you notice the person that started this thread hasn't posted since August. So, maybe take it upon yourself to state what needs to be updated & add it in a new post yourself. Or tell a mod & I'm sure they'd gladly add it to the first post. | | 0 @ 09-01-2006 06:54 dudekrulz | 3,618 posts
| Anyway, if you are willing to spend money on an antivirus system, spend it on 'NOD32'.
Anyway, a free evalution version can be downloaded here:
NOD32
Consistantly the best antivirus system/program in the world. | | 0 @ 09-01-2006 07:12 killthemall | 848 posts
| a lot of work needs to be done
maybe tomorrow
Thanks for the tips everyone | | 0 @ 09-01-2006 07:31 dakondakblade | 
10,180 posts
| hmmz theres also this standard tip
if you are using xp
press ctrl alt del
click processes
then if you see sh*t like
coolweb
hyperbrowser
and crap like that , then terminate them
then go to
Start -> All Programs -> Accessories -> System Tools -> System Restore
and create a restroe point
next go to your appropriate browser
and erase your history and cookies
run a spyware scan as suggest above
then restart
while you are runnin the scan and the restore point, id advise you to turn off the net so more dont get placed, while you are cleaning up .
| | 0 @ 09-01-2006 07:33 dudekrulz | 3,618 posts
| New version of Spybot-Search & Destroy:
Spybot search and Destroy 1.4:
Spybot- Search and Destroy 1.4
About EULAs, you can use this program to search or hidden EULA statements by detecting key words.
EULAlyzer
EULAlyzer can analyze license agreements in seconds, and provide a detailed listing of potentially interesting words and phrases. Discover if the software you're about to install displays pop-up ads, transmits personally identifiable information, uses unique identifiers to track you, or much much more.
The Benefits
* Discover potentially hidden behavior about the software you're going to install
* Pick up on things you missed when reading license agreements
* Keep a saved database of the license agreements you view
* Instant results - super-fast analysis in just a second
Another one for malware that's better than AVG for detecting malware (proven in independent tests) which is also free and is the full working version is Avast Home Edition
Avast Home Edition
Also, here is a program that prevents spyware from even entering your computer in the first place, kind of like a bouncer at a nightclub, only for your computer:
Spyware Blaster
Also, remember, if you anti-virus software doesn't have automatic updates, always check for updates at least once per week.
* offtopic :
If you think it's nessecary, could you update the original thread with the links and info I've written here. Thanks mod.
| | 0 @ 09-01-2006 08:08 dakondakblade |
10,180 posts
| since so many people ask me for help with comps, im going to help you all out..
here is a GREAT site for showing you how to speed up your comp. and it worked for me
clicky |
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