How to Fix My PC With a Spyware Infection
Spyware is a rogue program that robs your personal information and distributes it to a third party.The best way to rid yourself of spyware on your computer is to prevent the spyware program from installing onto your computer in the first place. However, spyware can sometimes install without your consent.
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Instructions
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Choose an antispyware program. Different antispyware programs come with different features. Choose a program that scans folders, sub-folders and email messages. You will also want a program that will protect your computer from being infected by future spyware infections. CNet has a list of notable security programs that effectively delete spyware infections. Check the Resource section for a link to the list.
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Install the antispyware program. Most antispyware programs are downloaded from their respective websites or installed from a manufacturer's CD. Follow the onscreen instructions when installing the program. When the program is finished installing, it will update its spyware footprints. The spyware footprints allow the program to detect new spyware strains. Restart your computer to complete the installation process.
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Try to uninstall spyware programs manually. Sometimes the remedy to a spyware infection is simply to delete the program. Visit the "Control Panel" in your PC, then click on "Add or Remove Programs." in XP. Sift through the list and uninstall the suspected spyware program.
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Disconnect from the Internet. Many antispyware programs will hide in an Internet connection and will reinfect your computer. Disconnect your computer from the Internet by physically removing the cable that connects your computer to the Internet router.
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Use Safe Mode if spyware disables your antispyware program. Starting the operating system in Safe Mode will allow the computer to run with minimal processes and programs. It will disable unnecessary programs from starting, which can potentially stop a spyware virus from doing more damage. Restart the computer. Press and hold the F8 button while your computer is booting. Click on "Safe Mode." Run your anti-spyware program.
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Run the antispyware program. Open your antispyware program. Allow the program to make a full computer scan for any infections. The scan can last a few minutes to a few hours, depending on the scan's efficacy and the number of files you have on that particular computer. Allow the program to do a full scan.
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Remove spyware. The antispyware program will prompt you once the scan is complete. You will be given the option of manually deleting the files or allowing the program to delete the files for you. Overview the infected files and make sure that the file is not an important one. Delete the spyware and restart your computer.
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Tips & Warnings
Prevent infections from installing onto your system. Do not download and install programs that you did authorize.
Download a second antispyware program. A second program may look through files that your first program may have overlooked.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit computer with infected e-mail and bugs image by patrimonio designs from Fotolia.com
