Beware of Xoftspy!

[Lady Effingbroke]

(I originally posted this in the Lounge, but thought it might be helpful, so I am also posting here - hope no one minds.) :)

It is considered a "rogue" spyware removal program. What "rogue" spyware removal programs do is offer you a free online scan, then require you to purchase the program in order to remove the spyware/malware it has "found" (i.e. placed on your computer during the scan). Sneaky, huh?

Here is a WONDERFUL site, maintained and frequently updated by Eric L. Howes, who is one of the good guys in the never-ending fight aginst spyware.

http://www.netrn.net/spywareblog

And here is the list of bogus spyware removal programs:

http://www.spywarewarrior.com/rogue_anti-spyware.htm#sites Scroll up and down the page to view a VERY DETAILED report on "rogue" spyware removal programs.

Note: Xoftspy was "de-listed" as bogus as of Dec. 8, 2004, but that was VERY recent. I still wouldn't trust it.

The best spyware removal programs are FREE. Ad-Aware and Spybot Search and Destroy are two of the best, as well as SpywareBlaster. Also, please consider using an antivirus program such as
AVG and software firewall like ZoneAlarm to protect your computer. on edit: ALL of these programs are absolutely, 100% FREE and work very well.

Spy Sweeper and PestPatrol are the only two reputable "for purchase" programs that I know of, but I don't use either because there are so many excellent free programs available.