How Do I Tell if my Computer is a Zombie? Does your computer respond very slowly? Take a long time to shut down? Access the Internet more than expected? Check out this article: www.pcworld.com/printable/article/id,134988/printable.html
(Sep 05 - Jim Dinkey) here is the URL for the Symantec report on the proliferation of malware and the prognosis.
(Jan 05) - Here are the most important antispyware applications - you should be running one or more:
• Spywareblaster
• Spybot S&D version 1.3. Turn on Tea Timer by first changing the Toolbar mode from Default to Advanced. Then in Tools - Resident (on the left), check Resident Tea Timer. This prevents changes to your system.
• Ad-Aware Personal Edition
• Microsoft Antispyware (Win 2000 or later)
• Webroot Spy Sweeper (there is a free online adware scan)
(Mar 07) Supplement your usual malware protection by occasionally running the scan-only free version of Spy Sweeper (Webroot Software) and/or Spyware Doctor (PC Tools). Don't worry if they find cookies; however, if the report says you have actual malicious software, buy the full product for removal or get expert help.
[Submitted by Gene Barlow Aug 2005] Check to see if your computer has hacker tools on it by accessing the Invisus web site at www.myinvisusdirect.com/usergroupstore. Look for and click on the small red button that is titled, “Test Your PC Now”. This will take you to a page where you can download a trial of the hacker tool removal program and see what hacker tools are located on your computer. You will probably be surprised at what you find. [N.B.–Invisus is available at user discount from Gene Barlow at User Group Relations or David B. Whittle's website www.whats4me.com]