Memphis PC Guy

1. Visit Windows Update:
   Make sure that you have all the Critical Updates recommended for your operating system and Internet Explorer. This includes SP1 and SP2 if you use Windows XP. The first defense against infection is a properly patched Operating System. 
   • Windows Update: Windows Update
   • If you have Word, Excel, Outlook or other Office programs installed. Consider using Microsoft Update instead of Windows Update. See the FAQ page here for more information:
     Microsoft Update 
2. Also, download and install Microsoft Baseline Analyzer.(Note that MBSA is only for Win 2000 SP3 or later and Office XP or later) When run, it will check system for security exposures, including missing updates. I suggest running it weekly. You can obtain more information here: MS Baseline Analyzer
3. Adjust your security settings for ActiveX:
   Select Internet Options from the Control Panels, or from Internet Explorer (Tools -> Internet Options)
   Press 'default level', then OK
   Now press "Custom Level." 
   • In the ActiveX controls and plug-ins section set these options:
     'Download signed ActiveX controls' - Prompt
     'Download unsigned ActiveX controls' - Disable
     'Initialize and script ActiveX controls not maked as safe'- Disable
     All other options accept the default 
4. For Windows XP2 SP2 users, check this link for additional steps you can take to secure Internet Explorer: Securing IE in Windows XP SP 2
5. Also,for Sp2 SP2 and IE users, in IE, Tools -> Manage Add-ons will give you a list of all BHO's, Extensions, and ActiveX modules installed on your computer. You can update, enable or disable them.
6. Download and install the following free programs 
   • SpywareBlaster
   • IESpyad
   • and while you are getting IEspyad you should look at Enough is Enough as well 
7. Install Spyware Detection and Removal Programs:
   You may also want to consider installing one (or all) of the following: 
   • Windows Defender
     NOTE: Windows Defender only runs on Windows 2000, XP, and 2003.
   • Spybot S&D
   • Use these programs to regularly scan your system for and remove many forms of spyware/malware. I recommend a combination of Windows Defender and BOClean from Comodo.
   • Install 'Spoofstick"
     Spoofstick is a simple browser extension that helps users detect spoofed (fake) websites. This extension is free and installs in Internet Explorer and Mozilla Firefox.
   • Reset System Restore
     If you are using Windows ME or Windows XP, please reset your System Restore. See Windows help for information.You should do this now
   • Clean Temporary Files and Folders
     Download and install the disk cleanup utility called Cleanup! 
     • Cleanup! will get rid of any malware which may be hiding in your temp folders (a common hiding place). You may also regain a massive amount of disk space.
       Here is a tutorial which describes its usage:
     • Run the disk cleanup utility called Cleanup! that you have already downloaded and installed
       Check the custom settings to your liking under options, but be sure to delete temporary files and temporary internet files for all user profiles. Also, cleanout the prefetch folder and the recycle bin.
       Then reboot into normal mode to let it clean out the remaining files, I also like Ccleaner for the same purposes. 
   • If you use, or plan on using, additional spyware/malware detection and/or removal programs, please check the following two Items.
   • Rogue/Suspect Anti-Spyware
     Before using or purchasing any Spyware/Malware protection/removal program, always check the Rogue/Suspect Spyware List. It will save you a lot of grief, as well as money if you are thinking of purchasing.
   • Anti-Spyware Programs Compared
     Want to know just how effective your anti-spyware program is? Wonder how well any of the "rogue" programs listed above work?
   • Alternate Browser
     Consider using an alternate browser as your default. I recommend and use Firefox as my primary browser another excellent choice is Opera. It is still necessary to keep Internet Explorer current and protected in order to use Windows Update.

For more information about Spyware, the tools available, and other informative material, including information on how you may have been infected in the first place, please check out This faq at DSLreports

"In the end It is your responsibility to read and adhere to the End User Licensing Agreement (EULA) of all software and services mentioned."  Sometimes these Eulas will even admit the malware/spyware is going to be installed.. You really should read these carefully.