In the past month I’ve been extra busy removing malware and rootkits from various computers including my step-mothers, my wifes, and even mine. Thus I’m putting a simple list of default software that should be on each machine and updated on a regular basis.
- Spyware Blaster - This doesn’t scan, monitor, or remove spyware, it just makes it hard for the crap to be installed automatically.
- Spybot Search and Destroy - Has a real time scanner and a good removal tool. Turn on SDHelper and Immunize.
- Avast Personal Edition - While it won’t help you with malware generally it’s a good antivirus and it’s free. My only gripe is that I have to re-register every 14 months which could leave someone unprotected.
- SuperAntiSpyware (SAS)- I have the portable copy becuase I don’t like to install even more stuff. I also have the free copy because Spybot is already doing active scanning. I use SAS as a secondary tool for removal.
- MalwareBytes - Not necessarily required with the rest of the things on the list but if you have something and the other two (SAS or Spybot) don’t remove it you can give this trusty tool a try.
- CCCleaner - This isn’t really a tool for removing malware or preventing it but it kicks ass none-the-less. Just make sure, when you install it, that you are aware it will ask if it can install a toolbar in your browser - I tell it no.