When Is Antispyware Really Spywa

When Is Antispyware Really Spyware? (Thanks to SmartComputing Magazine)

Ever hear the phrase, “One of these is not like the other”? When it comes to antispyware programs, a whole bunch of them isn’t like the others, and that bunch represents a nasty lot. Many programs—other than those tested in our roundup—claim to eliminate spyware, and while some of them do, they use deceptive practices to lure you into thinking they can find loads more spyware on your computer than other programs. Even worse, others take the brazen step of actually installing adware, spyware, hijackers, and other malware.

According to Spyware Warrior (www.spywarewarrior.com), a site that tracks rogue antispyware programs, more than 200 such programs exist today, with many using names very similar to those of legitimate programs. Some of these programs are actually one and the same, but their developers use different names and different Web sites to market the programs. Before trying any antispyware program, check it against the Spyware Warrior list to determine whether it’s safe to use. This list also keeps track of programs that use flawed detection schemes and outdated reference databases, as well as those that lack update functions, privacy policies, and return policies.