Jeremy wrote:
> x-no-archive: yes
>
> I just discovered this NG, and I only recently was introduced to
> spyware, when my browser was hijacked by Xupiter.com. I was trying
> to download a Java applet to enter a chatroom using my browser, and I
> got more than I bargained for . . .
>
> I have completely lost the ability to use MSN's search engine, by
> typing the word "GO" followed by the browse subject, into my address
> bar. I don't know how to de-install IE6 and then reinstall it (if
> that is even possible), so I have learned to live with the situation.
>
> Here is my question:
>
> What anti-spyware or other software should I be running?

I use and update regularly IE-SPYAD and a good HOSTS file.
http://www.staff.uiuc.edu/~ehowes/resource.htm#IESPYAD
http://asp.flaaten.dk/proxo/forum.asp?FORUM_ID=20

> Right now I have McAfee Anti-Virus, updated every couple of days. I
> have LavaSoft AdAware, and it has found and disinfected a number of
> spyware items, I also run SpyBot daily. I also have Spyware Blaster,
> and I have immunized every item on their list. Finally, I have
> Spyware Guard running in the background.
>
> I do a complete virus scan every couple of days, and I have it set to
> filter internet downloads at other times (I don't keep it running in
> the background, because it slows my system down to an unacceptable
> level.

I use AVG free from Grisoft on my AMD tower and my ancient 200MHZ MMX laptop
without any impact on performance.

> I also have ZoneAlarm, latest freeware version, running at all times,
> and it is set to its default settings. I have it set to go to
> Internet Lock after 15 minutes of inactivity.
>
> I also use Anonymizer Private Surfing, and I always browse any
> unfamiliar sites using it at maximum security, with encrypted URLs
> and SSH encryption for downloaded pages.
>
> Finally, I use PC Guardian encryption on a couple of sensitive
> directories. I ordinarily leave the application turned off, except
> when I need to view or work with an encrypted file.
>
> I do keep seeing an Alexa URL ("Related.htm," I think), that keeps
> popping up when I scan with SpyBot S&D. I clean it off, and a few
> days later it reappears. I have no idea what it is that I am doing
> that enables this file to keep coming back.

Read this:
http://www.imilly.com/alexa.htm

> Have I covered all the bases? Is there anything else I should be
> doing? Are there any web sites that offer information on this stuff?
> I'd appreciate any information or suggestions.

http://www.staff.uiuc.edu/~ehowes/main-nf.htm