How to Remove Spyware & Adware From a Windows Computer

Some spyware and adware programs attempt to procure your credit card information.

Spyware is a general term used to describe software that gathers information, such as browsing behavior, and sends it to a remote server for the purpose of generating targeted advertisements. Adware displays advertisements, generally in the form of pop-ups and banners. In addition to invading your privacy, spyware and adware can slow your computer, change your system configurations and cause your computer to freeze or crash. Fortunately, the Windows Vista and 7 operating systems come with free a tool to remove spyware and adware.

Instructions

1. Click "Start," "All Programs" and "Windows Defender."

2. Click the "Down Arrow" next to the help button and select "Check for Updates" from the drop-down menu. Windows Defender will check for and install any new malware definitions that it finds. This is important so that Windows Defender can remove the latest adware and spyware.

3. Click the "Down Arrow" next to the scan button and select "Full Scan." Windows Defender will scan your entire computer and remove any adware and spyware that it finds.

Tips & Warnings

• To help prevent future spyware and adware from infecting your computer, turn on the Windows Firewall. To do this, click "Start," "Control Panel," type "firewall" into the search field, and click "Windows Firewall." In the left pane of the window that opens, click "Turn Windows Firewall On or Off," and then click "Turn on Windows Firewall" and "OK."

References

• Indiana University: What is Spyware or Adware?
• Windows: Using Windows Defender
• Windows: Turn Windows Firewall On or Off