DisableWinTracking
для Windows
DisableWinTracking (Windows 10 Tracking Disable Tool) — небольшая программка с открытым исходным кодом для отключения некоторых шпионских модулей в Windows 10. Защитит вашу конфиденциальность и частную жизнь путем отключения функций, направленных на отслеживание пользовательской активности. При необходимости позволяет вернуть ранее измененные настройки операционной системы к состоянию «по умолчанию».
Особенности:
- Отключение шпионских модулей. Предлагает восемь вариантов отключения отслеживаний.
- Возможность удаления некоторых типов модулей, предназначенных для передачи данных в Microsoft.
- Вносит правки в HOSTS файл, для того чтобы блокировать все попытки ОС отправлять данные.
- Блокировка телеметрии.
- Чистит файл журнала DiagTrack, который можно найти в «C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Diagnosis\ETLLogs\AutoLogger». Установка блокировки на запрет добавления туда последующей информации.
- Запуск программы от имени Администратора.
- Поддержка 32- и 64-битных систем.
Внимание! Microsoft выступила со специальным заявлением, в котором настоятельно рекомендует своим клиентам не устанавливать приложения такого рода, т.к. подобные сторонние приложения могут создать в будущем проблемы в работе системы в связи с изменением важных параметров и функций.
ТОП-сегодня раздела «Настройка, оптимизация»
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Отзывы о программе DisableWinTracking
. про DisableWinTracking 3.0.1 [08-11-2016]
КАК ВЕРНУТЬ НАСТРОЙКИ ПО УМОЛЧАНИЮ?
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How to keep Microsoft Windows 10 from spying on you? Ever since Microsoft released Windows 10, a popular movement grew out of the privacy controversy, people are afraid of the many tracking features within Windows 10, thus the birth of many “anti-spying” apps have sprung up. They promise to keep Windows 10 from tracking you–but often, they can cause more problems than they solve. I do not recommend you use these tools unless you are certain it won’t affect your work station.
Continue ➤ 4 Anti-Keylogger And Keystroke Scrambler Software To Stop Spying
Privacy is a far more serious concern than most people realize. Personal data could be used to steal your identity, and your money. It could also allow malicious people to track you or your loved ones and find opportune moments to do harm. Or on a simple level, it could be used to publicize information you just don’t want to be public. In an age where giving up your private info grants you access to some very helpful services and apps, it can seem impossible to protect that data. It is possible though. We’ve compiled a list of key services and apps that help you do just that.
If You’re Not Paying, You’re The Product! Which is somewhat true, since Windows 10 is a free upgrade for Windows 7 and 8 users, Microsoft needs to find a way to generate income, thus the best way to do that is to monitor the behavior of the users – anonymously. Since Windows has a large installation pool base, tracking which domain is popular means making Bing search engine better. Since Microsoft is forbidden by law to track a person personally, these data are collected anonymously, thus no harm allowing them to do so. Possible problems when using these tools.
- Blocking Windows Update, making updating Windows impossible and preventing you from patching important security updates, making your computer vulnerable.
- Possible synchronizing problem with backups, Skype and many more apps that uses the ‘Host Files’ feature.
- Breaking Windows Store, making it impossible to update apps or verify the license.
- Disabling the Windows Defender antivirus, which helps keep Windows 10 secure, and other system components you may actually want, like OneDrive.
1. WPD
A small but powerful portable tool working via Windows API. WPD is the most convenient and proper way to customize privacy related settings in Windows.
- Privacy management – Customize Group Policy, Services, Tasks and other settings responsible for data collection and transmission.
- IP Blocker – Block telemetry IP’s using rules from the @crazy-max repository.
- Appx uninstaller – Easy remove pre-installed Microsoft Store garbage or any other app.
2. Blackbird
Don’t want Windows spying on your every move? Don’t feel like spending hours messing with privacy settings that ultimately still result in data collection? Think your private information belongs to you and no one else? Or maybe you just want a faster PC and don’t like all the new “features” Windows has to offer. They thought so too, so they made the Blackbird V6.
- Blocks Telemetry Completely – Block Windows spyware, on both the application and network level, without editing the HOSTS file or firewall settings and remove all Windows telemetry updates. Supports Wireless and Ethernet connections, IPv4/IPv6.
- Removes Windows Ads – Remove all Windows built-in advertising and any pre-installed app you want. Stop your PC from downloading and installing sponsored software in the background.
- Restores Privacy – Prevent diagnostic data, passwords, contacts, URL, SMS, handwriting, location, and P2P-update sharing. Remove all unique ID tracking tokens. Disable 60+ data collection tasks and consequently speed up your PC.
- Portable, Restorable, Flexible – No installation, with a focus on leaving the smallest possible footprint, Blackbird is a single, portable exe with granular switches available. Want to restore everything back? They got you covered. Works on Windows Vista, 7, 8/8.1, 10 (Home/Pro/Ent/Edu)
3. Win10 Spy Disabler
Win10 Spy Disabler is a very simple Windows OS software that helps you to disable Windows services and programs used to track your activity and to collect data about your usage, disable telemetry and data collection. It seems that Windows 10 may spy on nearly everything you do, according to Microsoft’s privacy statement.
They developed this tool so you can easily disable all services, programs and system settings known to collect data and telemetry. When all changes have been applied, you should reboot the PC. This program should be used only on Windows 7, 8, 8.1, 10 (32\64-bit).
4. O&O ShutUp10
O&O ShutUp10 means you have full control over which comfort functions under Windows 10 you wish to use, and you decide when the passing on of your data goes too far. Using a very simple interface, you decide how Windows 10 should respect your privacy by deciding which unwanted functions should be deactivated.
O&O ShutUp10 is entirely free and does not have to be installed – it can be simply run directly and immediately on your PC. And it will not install or download retrospectively unwanted or unnecessary software, like so many other programs do these days! More control over your operating system.
- Adapt your security settings
- Protect your privacy
- Control location services
- Control Windows Updates
- Do not pass on your user data and diagnostics
5. W10Privacy
The by default highly questionable set options concerning privacy and data protection in Windows 10 brought me to the idea for the development of this little program. Microsoft generously enables everybody to change the concerning settings, but hides them in countless menus, where a normal user does not want to search for!
6. DisableWinTracking
Uses some known methods that attempt to disable tracking in Windows 10 such as Telemetry, DiagTrack Log, Services, hosts-file, IP blocking, Windows Defender / WifiSense, and OneDrive.
7. Privacy Repairer
Privacy Repairer is a breeze to use. No need to worry about complex and overblown interfaces, as each option comes with just a simple toggle button! And if you are ever lost, detailed information about every option is readily available. And remember, all changes you make are always safely reversible! Privacy Repairer is a tool for Windows 10 designed to protect your privacy.
It comes with almost 60 options engineered to carefully modify your system in a way most beneficial for your privacy. Privacy Repairer is a breeze to use. No need to worry about complex and overblown interfaces, as each option comes with just a simple toggle button! And if you are ever lost, detailed information about every option is readily available. And remember, all changes you make are always safely reversible!
- Privacy protection – Privacy Repairer is a tool for Windows 10 designed to protect your privacy. It comes with almost 60 options engineered to carefully modify your system in a way most beneficial for your privacy.
- Advanced options – Professionals may appreciate advanced options which significantly improve your privacy but may lower your security. For example, disabling “SmartScreen for desktop” will stop leaking what software you download, but may open you to malware as your downloads won’t be checked against an online reputation service.
8. Ashampoo AntiSpy for Windows 10
Windows 10 offers many comfort features such as the virtual assistant Cortana that can make everyday life easier for you. To make this possible, Windows 10 has to collect huge amounts of data. It also analyzes user profiles to display user-tailored ads as Microsoft openly acknowledges. So by default, Windows 10 is set to collect more data than many users would allow. Even the recommended express installation later states that: If you don’t want a particular setting you’ll have to disable it yourself. More system control.
- Configure security settings
- Protect your privacy
- Disable location services
- Prevent Windows® 10 from sending diagnostics and usage data
9. Avira Free Security (With Privacy)
Optimize over 200 privacy settings with just a few clicks, prevent companies from collecting your personal data, clean up your device’s digital footprint and shred confidential files beyond recovery. Imagine how long it would take to manually fix over 200 privacy issues on your PC – even if you could find them all.
Avira Free Security can do it for you automatically by selecting any of 3 user profiles. Each profile comes with a unique balance of privacy and convenience. They’re free and easy to use. Microsoft stores your personal data to allow firms to create more targeted ads. Privacy Pal’s basic privacy setting prevents this by automatically:
- Disabling your advertising ID tracker
- Switching off pop-ups in the Microsoft Store and Explorer page
- Turning off Bluetooth advertising
10. Debotnet
Debotnet is a free and portable tool for controlling Windows 10’s privacy-related settings and keeping your personal data private. Windows 10 has raised several concerns about privacy due to the fact that it has a lot of telemetry and online features, which send your data (sensitive and not) to Microsoft and can’t be disabled.
The Windows 10 default privacy settings leave a lot to be desired when it comes to protecting you and your private information. Whenever I set up a new computer or update a current setup for my family or job, I always carefully go through the privacy settings for each install, making sure to lock it down to make it as private as possible.
- Disable telemetry and online features, which send your data (sensitive and not) to Microsoft
- Choose which unwanted functions you wish to disable
- Uninstall Windows 10’s Built-in Apps
- Debotnet will show you what it’s doing. You have full control, because the executing code can be viewed in a simple text editor
- Debug mode. E.g. the Test mode lets you see which values are twisted in registry, commands executed etc.
- Simple scripting engine for adding custom privacy rules
- Modern and familiar UI, with template support
- Small footprint. No installation required
11. Destroy Windows Spying
Even though Windows 10 did bring many of the features users expected of it, such as a Start Menu and revamped icons, it also came with several issues and a very important one is related to its tracking behavior. Destroy Windows 10 Spying is one of the many applications that aims to solve this problem. Features.
- Remove all spyware modules
- Remove spying apps
- Add spying domains to hosts file!
- Remove spying services
- Remove Windows 10 Metro Apps
- Support Windows 7/8/8.1/10 and Server 2008-2012 R2
- Remove Office 2016 telemetry
12. Spybot Anti-Beacon
Spybot Anti-Beacon is a standalone tool which was designed to block and stop the various tracking (telemetry) issues present in Windows 10. It has since been modified to block similar tracking functionality in Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows 8.1 operating systems.
Anti-Beacon is small, simple to use, and is provided free of charge. It was created to address the privacy concerns of users of Windows 10 who do not wish to have information about their PC usage sent to Microsoft. Simply clicking “Immunize” on the main screen of Anti-Beacon will immediately disable any known tracking features included by Microsoft in the operating system.
Все способы:
- Автоматическая очистка от шпионских модулей
- Настройки, профессиональный режим
- Утилиты
- О программе
- Справка
- Достоинства
- Недостатки
- Скачать Destroy Windows 10 Spying
- Вопросы и ответы: 3
Сохранение конфиденциальности личной информации совершенно обоснованно волнует очень многих пользователей операционных систем семейства Windows. C выходом 10-й версии ОС, распространившейся не только на ПК и ноутбуках, но и на мобильных девайсах, вопрос отключения программных компонентов, осуществляющих явную и скрытую слежку за пользователем, встал еще более остро. К счастью, существуют специальные средства, которые позволяют отключить шпионские модули всего в пару кликов мышью. Одно из таких решений — Destroy Windows 10 Spying.
Портативное приложение Destroy Windows 10 Spying предназначено в первую очередь для отключения параметров телеметрии, которая отвечает в том числе за наполнение отчетов, отправляемых в Microsoft и содержащих сведения об активности пользователя, а также совершаемых им действиях. Кроме главной своей функции – пресечения шпионажа со стороны разработчиков ОС, Destroy Windows 10 Spying несет в себе целый список дополнительных опций.
Автоматическая очистка от шпионских модулей
Запустив не требующую установки программу, пользователь сразу же может переходить к запуску основного функционала Destroy Windows 10 Spying с помощью одноименной большой кнопки, которая дает старт автоматическому процессу очистки системы от шпионских компонентов с настройками по умолчанию.
Настройки, профессиональный режим
Более опытные пользователи могут воспользоваться вкладкой «Настройки» и определить таким образом конкретные операции, которые будет проводить Destroy Windows 10 Spying в процессе своей работы.
Для того, чтобы изменение параметров стало доступным, необходимо установить отметку в чекбоксе «Профессиональный режим». Это некоторая перестраховка от неверных действий пользователя, ведь некоторые операции, проведенные с помощью Дестрой Виндовс 10 Спаинг, необратимы.
Утилиты
Дополнительные функции приложения доступны на вкладке «Утилиты».
Здесь можно провести действия, представленные:
- Удалением системных приложений Windows 10;
- Ручным редактированием файла hosts;
- Отключением/включением автоматического обновления Виндовс, а также «Контроля учетных записей пользователей»;
- Отключением компонентов телеметрии в MS Office;
- Возможностью удалить устаревшие правила брандмауэра;
- Доступом к системному приложению «Восстановление системы», если требуется откат действий Destroy Windows 10 Spying.
О программе
На вкладке «О программе», помимо получения сведений о версии приложения и проведенной автором работе по улучшению функций в последних сборках, можно изменить язык интерфейса.
Справка
Для пользователей, которые сомневаются, следует ли использовать приложение, а также для опытных профессионалов, использующих командную строку, автором добавлена вкладка с призывающим к переходу на нее названием «Прочитай меня». Опытные пользователи здесь могут узнать о параметрах, вводимых при запуске Destroy Windows 10 Spying из консоли, а новички почитать об основных возможностях средства.
Достоинства
- Русифицированный интерфейс;
- Программа портативна и имеет небольшой размер;
- Перед началом изменений в системе автоматически создается точка восстановления;
- Простота использования;
- Ряд дополнительных функций.
Недостатки
- Некоторые действия приложения характеризуются необратимостью.
Для того, чтобы Windows-пользователь не беспокоился о конфиденциальности при работе в среде ОС от Майкрософт актуальных версий, применение Destroy Windows 10 Spying является отличным решением, ведь программа не требует глубоких знаний у конечного потребителя, а все операции, целью которых является предотвращение отслеживания действий и активности пользователя, производятся приложением в автоматическом режиме.
Скачать Destroy Windows 10 Spying
Загрузить последнюю версию программы
Наша группа в TelegramПолезные советы и помощь
Большинству пользователей Windows 11/10 и других версий иногда приходится прибегать к антивирусным утилитам, средствам удаления вредоносных программ или поиска майнеров на компьютере.
Бесплатная утилита HijackThis+ несколько отличается — она выполняет не поиск самих угроз по их сигнатурам или иным признакам, а сканирует основные расположения в системе, которые могли быть изменены вредоносным ПО и предоставляет информацию о них для принятия решения пользователем. Об этом инструменте и пойдёт речь далее.
Использование HijackThis+
Официальная страница проекта HijackThis+ находится на GitHub — там вы можете загрузить последнюю версию программы. После чего в самом простом варианте достаточно выполнить следующие шаги:
- Распакуйте весь архив в удобное расположение, не запускайте программу напрямую из архива.
- Запустите исполняемый файл программы, внимательно прочитайте и примите (или нет) условия соглашения.
- Выберите одно из действий: «Проверить систему и сохранить отчёт» (если вы планируете передать информацию специалисту для анализа) или «Только проверить систему» (если готовы проанализировать её сами).
- Дождитесь завершения сканирования. Результаты появятся в окне программы и, если вы включали сохранение отчета — в текстовом редакторе по умолчанию:
- HijackThis+ не принимает «решений» о действиях автоматически, а лишь выводит список обнаруженных изменений в реестре и файлах инициализации, прописанные в реестре пункты автозагрузки, задания в планировщике и другие. То есть предоставляет информацию, которую вы можете проанализировать.
- Раздел «Секции» в «Справке» поможет понять, что именно и с какими кодами отображается в окне программы и отчете:
- Отметив нужные пункты и нажав кнопку «Пофиксить», вы удалите выбранные элементы. Внимание: перед этим рекомендую создать точку восстановления системы либо средствами самой Windows, либо используя «Инструменты» в HijackThis (с настройками по умолчанию программа автоматически создает резервные копии, но лучше убедиться в этом).
Программа не для пользователя, который хотел бы, чтобы все решения и действия были выполнены автоматически (для этих целей — другие средства удаления вредоносных программ или, например, KVRT), а для тех, кто способен проанализировать найденные записи и оценить их потенциальную безвредность или нежелательность самостоятельно, либо хочет передать информацию для изучения специалисту.
Дополнительные возможности
Помимо упомянутого отчёта, в HijackThis+ присутствуют некоторые дополнительные полезные инструменты и функции:
Как итог, утилита может быть полезной и её стоит иметь в своём арсенале: она может помочь, когда требуется предоставить кому-либо информацию о системе для помощи с поиском вредоносных изменений в системе, так и для самостоятельной проверки наличия таковых.
С учетом того, что HijackThis+ — портативная утилита и не зависит от сигнатур, достаточно просто иметь её в какой-либо папке с вашими программами (много места она не займёт), а когда возникнет необходимость воспользоваться ею.
Spyware is a form of malware that tries to steal information from you without you knowing or approving. It could be disguised as legitimate software or work behind the scenes to track web browsing data or monitor keystrokes to collect passwords.
Our Favorite Anti-Spyware Software
After hours of searching, testing, and digesting their differences, I’ve compiled this list of free tools that can scan your hard drive, flash drive, external hard drive, etc., to remove spyware. Some of them only work when you manually start the scan. Still, others will monitor your computer all the time to make sure spyware can’t modify your computer or monitor your information.
All the programs mentioned below are known to scan for spyware, but they might not look for other things like viruses. Other scanners remove some malware but not spyware, so I’ve omitted those from this list.
SUPERAntiSpyware
What We Like
-
Lots of scan options
-
Scans can run quickly by using more processor power
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You can scan anywhere you want, including the system memory
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Works from Explorer to scan any folder/file at any time
What We Don’t Like
-
Doesn’t update automatically
-
Can’t schedule scans to run automatically
SUPERAntiSpyware should be one of your very first picks if you want to get rid of spyware that’s already on your computer. It updates often, installs and scans quickly, and gives you complete control over what gets scanned.
It’s able to check inside ZIP files, skip unknown file types (for a quicker scan), ignore big files, and skip over non-executable files (so that only EXEs and similar file types are scanned).
What I think really makes SUPERAntiSpyware stand out among the others in this list is that it can also be set up to only scan files that have been changed within the last so-many days (1 day, 5 days, etc.), ignore System Restore and Volume Information data, use more of the CPU for a faster scan (called Scan Boost), and even scan the files that shortcuts point to.
It can scan the whole computer or just parts of it where spyware normally exists. You can also run a Critical Point Scan to delete spyware that’s currently running in memory or use the Custom Scan option to pick what gets scanned and where to check (flash drives, internal/external hard drives, select folders, etc.).
This anti-spyware tool can also delete temporary Windows files before the scan is started, exclude folders from scans, scan from the right-click context menu, and close down any open web browsers before scanning.
You can see just how comprehensive it is! It’s been my #2 pick for a long time. In fact, I like to have this one and Malwarebytes installed at the same time to almost guarantee that between the two, there’s nothing malicious left on the computer.
The freeware version is 100 percent free, but you do have to manually run scans and definition updates (they don’t happen automatically). I don’t think this is a dealbreaker, but if you want those features, you can get Pro X Edition.
The software works with Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, and Windows 7.
Download SUPERAntiSpyware
If you want to try the professional edition, you can enable the trial during installation of the free version.
Malwarebytes
What We Like
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Usually finds more threats than similar programs
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It’s able to locate PuPs and many types of malware
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Can run from the right-click context menu in Explorer
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Lets you customize the scan settings
What We Don’t Like
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Automatic updating requires the premium, non-free edition
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Automatic quarantine isn’t included for free
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You can’t set up custom automatic scan schedules
Malwarebytes is a big-hitter when it comes to cleaning up spyware. For years, it’s been one of the first programs I install on any new computer. It’s easy to use and tends to find a lot more malicious items than similar programs.
It scans through Windows Registry values and keys, files, and running processes, plus includes a heuristics analyzer to find potentially unwanted programs (PuPs).
When the scan is complete, it’s really easy to tell where the spyware was found, and selecting the ones to quarantine is just a click or two away.
Malwarebytes can also scan individual files and folders, as well as whole hard drives, with the right-click context menu in File Explorer. There’s an option to scan within archives, ignore certain files/folders, and to scan for rootkits too.
Automatic updates, a more detailed scanning schedule, and automatic quarantine are only available in the premium version. You can start a trial from inside the free version.
This program runs on Windows 11, 10, 8, and 7, as well as macOS 14 through 10.12.
Download Malwarebytes
The same company also offers the lighter, and portable, Malwarebytes AdwCleaner tool. It finds not only spyware and adware, but also PUPs and browser hijackers.
Avast Free Antivirus
What We Like
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Checks for spyware automatically, all the time
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Lots of settings you can tweak
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Works from Explorer’s right-click context menu
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Includes other useful tools
What We Don’t Like
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You might not need or ever use the extra tools it includes
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Takes much longer to install than some spyware cleaners
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Could be considered cluttered with all the other tools
Our Review of Avast Free Antivirus
Avast Free Antivirus can detect and remove spyware before you even know it’s on your computer. What makes it different from the two from above is that it’s always on and always watching for new threats.
There are lots of settings you can adjust in this software, like to enable CyberCapture to block unrecognized files, use Hardened Mode to really lock down on security, scan for potentially unwanted programs, start scans from File Explorer, exclude files/folders/URLs from being checked, and lots more.
Also included here is a Wi-Fi inspector, VPN client, junk cleaner, software updater, and web and mail protection.
Avast sells paid antivirus programs but also offers this free one, all of which provide anti-spyware protection. You can download Avast for Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, and Windows 7, as well as macOS 10.11 or later.
Download Avast Free Antivirus
AVG AntiVirus Free
What We Like
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Finds spyware automatically
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Scans can be performed during bootup
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Includes an advanced, deep clean procedure
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Makes finding spyware on external drives easy
What We Don’t Like
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Uses more system resources than a dedicated spyware cleaner
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Includes features you might not want if you’re after just a spyware remover tool
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Includes ads
AVG is another popular antivirus program that serves as a full malware scanner, checking for and removing not only spyware but also ransomware, viruses, and more… all automatically and for free.
AVG provides not only protection for your computer but also for your web activity and email. You can perform a full system scan, a boot-time scan, or a custom scan, but there’s also a dedicated button that instantly starts a check for spyware on all your removable devices.
A unique feature I want to mention is the Deep Scan option that runs a much slower but also more thorough scan, a good option if nothing else seems to get rid of the spyware. You can configure it to recognize files by their content and not their file extension, which is ideal if the spyware is using a hidden/false file extension.
The Deep Scan option can also open and scan through over 20 archive file types, much more than most other spyware scanners that usually just support the popular ones (ZIP and RAR).
Something else worth mentioning is its ability to scan through files in the order that they exist on the hard drive, which can speed up scanning since it’s not performing an unnecessary number of HDD seeks.
Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, and Windows 7 users can download AVG. It’s also supported on macOS 10.11 and newer.
Download AVG AntiVirus Free
HouseCall
What We Like
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Doesn’t require installation (it’s portable)
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Uses minimal processor and memory resources compared to other system cleaners
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You can pick which parts of the computer to scan
What We Don’t Like
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Doesn’t let you start scans from a folder or file in File Explorer
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Updates and scans must be run manually
Trend Micro HouseCall is a simple and portable spyware cleaner that doesn’t use up a lot of disk space, but still provides a full scanner against malware. I like to store this one on my own ‘rescue’ flash drive with other useful recovery tools.
Use the scan button to start the default quick scan, or go into the settings to change where to check for spyware. You can choose everything or custom areas like certain folders or hard drives only.
HouseCall is said to run on Windows 10 through Windows XP. I also used it on Windows 11 and it worked perfectly.
Download HouseCall
ESET Online Scanner
What We Like
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Portable (no installation)
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Multiple scan types
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Supports scheduled scans
What We Don’t Like
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Banner ads for other ESET software
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Few settings to tweak
Among ESET’s several security software options is this free one that removes not only spyware, but also viruses, Trojans, and other threats. It’s incredibly easy to use, and my only real complaint is that it has news and upsell banners that aren’t necessary.
You can run a full, quick, or custom scan whenever you want to. There’s also a ‘periodic scan’ option you can set up so the program checks for threats on a monthly basis at whatever time and day you choose.
This is a fully portable program, meaning it doesn’t install to your computer. Much like HouseCall, this means it’s easily usable from a portable device. It works on Windows 11, 10, 8, and 7.
Download ESET Online Scanner
Spybot
What We Like
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Great for advanced users
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Helps protect your files from new spyware in the future
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Can scan any file or folder to check for spyware
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Includes lots of options you can customize
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Scans for rootkits, too
What We Don’t Like
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Might be too advanced for most people
Spybot is great for advanced users who want total control of how the program scans and protects against spyware, but it’s not ideal for novice users who just want to delete spyware. For that, use one of the other programs I recommend above.
One of the most notable features is its immunization option, which blocks common threats in various web browsers. It’s as easy as scanning for the vulnerabilities and then selecting Apply immunization.
Another benefit is that it makes it a breeze to disable tracking cookies that could compromise your privacy, again with just one click.
Of course, Spybot can also «search and destroy» spyware, too, using its system scanner. If you have particular files to scan, you can do that as well.
Among the many options you can enable is one to scan and immunize not only the current user’s files and settings, but also those of any other user on the computer.
You can also add a spyware scan option to autoplay devices like flash drives, tell the program which folder holds your internet downloads so that it will do deep spyware scans there, and run rootkit scans.
You can use this program if your computer runs Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, or Windows XP.
Download Spybot
F-Secure Online Scanner
What We Like
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Couldn’t be easier to use
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No unnecessary settings or screens
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Removes viruses and spyware
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Runs without installation (portable)
What We Don’t Like
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Very bare (not good if you’re looking for customizations)
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Unclear where it’s scanning, and you can’t pick specific folders or files to scan
I like F-Secure’s free spyware scanner because it’s remarkably easy to use. It’s very lightweight, takes seconds to download and under a minute to start scanning.
I recommend getting this one if you think the other programs in this list look too confusing. You don’t even have to do much to make it work: Just open it from wherever you downloaded it, and let it do its thing—it’ll present you with the results when it’s finished scanning.
You can use this program in Windows 11 and probably older versions, too.
Download F-Secure Online Scanner
Dr.Web CureIt!
What We Like
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No installation needed (it’s portable)
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You can choose what to scan, including just the memory
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Lots of scan options
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Removes other threats, too
What We Don’t Like
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Free for personal, home use only
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Must enter your name and email to get the download link
The Dr.Web CureIt! anti-spyware scanner is completely portable. You can scan the whole computer or check for spyware in particular places only, like in the Windows system folder, temporary files, Documents folder, RAM, and some other places.
You can also add your own custom locations like another hard drive or some other folder, as well as scan inside installation packages and archives.
Dr.Web CureIt! is a bit large when compared to these other tools (over 200 MB), but it can also scan for a number of other malware types like adware, riskware, hacking tools, dialers, etc.
Something I found interesting while using it is that it’s the only spyware scanner from this list that uses a unique name with each download, which it does to help prevent malware from blocking it.
It runs on Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP, and is free for home users only. You must purchase Dr.Web CureIt! to use it in any other form.
Download Dr.Web CureIt!
Emsisoft Emergency Kit (EEK)
What We Like
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Checks for actively running spyware and spyware in the file system
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Runs in portable mode
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Custom scan options
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Finds more threats than just spyware
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Also works as a command line program
What We Don’t Like
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Scheduled scans aren’t supported
Emsisoft Emergency Kit is a portable anti-spyware tool that can scan and delete all types of malware in addition to spyware, like worms, adware, keyloggers, etc.
I’ve included this one because it’s completely portable and is capable of scanning for actively running spyware that’s currently loaded into memory.
EEK can also check for spyware traces that exist in the registry and elsewhere that could indicate an infection. There are also some options for finding potentially unwanted programs and rootkits.
This anti-spyware utility supports some other features too, like scanning email data files, finding spyware in archives like CAB and ZIP files, and excluding or including only certain file types in the scan.
There are two versions of this tool—one is a regular application with a user interface, and the other is a command line utility that’s useful for automated or batch scanning. They are both included in this one download.
You need to have Windows 11 or Windows 10 to install EEK. It also works with Windows Server 2016 and newer.
Download Emsisoft Emergency Kit
Sophos Scan & Clean
What We Like
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No installation necessary
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Deletes more than just spyware
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Includes customizable settings if you want to use them
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Can make a system restore point before removing files
What We Don’t Like
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Several steps to reach the final download page
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Can’t pause a scan
Sophos has all kinds of security software, including the free Scan & Clean tool that can identify and delete spyware, zero-day malware, Trojans, rootkits, and more.
Like some of these other options, this program is totally portable, so it won’t take long for it to start finding and removing spyware and other kinds of infections. However, there are some settings you can edit if you want to, like to compress unknown suspicious files before uploading them to the Scan Cloud, and to delete malware remnants.
Due to its «proprietary cloud technology,» this tool is always up-to-date, so you don’t have to re-download it each time you want to scan your computer.
You’ll get a report at the end of the scan that shows things like how many threats were detected and how many objects were scanned.
There’s a 32-bit and a 64-bit option on the download page. It runs on Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, and Windows 7.
Download Sophos Scan & Clean
SpywareBlaster
What We Like
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Protects your computer from new spyware threats
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Lets you restore files damaged by spyware
What We Don’t Like
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Can’t find spyware that’s already on your computer
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No update since 2020
SpywareBlaster is different from the rest of these programs since it doesn’t scan for existing spyware, though true to its name, it does «blast» new threats before they can reach your system.
The way it works is that you can enable protection for your web browsers to protect against malicious scripts, exploits, and cookies that track your web behavior. It does this by enabling a pre-made list of blockades (which you can update manually at any time) against certain websites, cookies, and scripts.
The System Snapshot option provides a way to create a backup of various system settings so that if spyware does happen to make changes, you can restore the backup to get your settings back to normal.
There are also some very specific spyware protection tools included in SpywareBlaster, like Hosts Safe to back up and encrypt the hosts file (which is one target for spyware) and a list of your own custom ActiveX blocking rules.
It’s said to run on Windows 10, 8, and 7. I used it on Windows 10, and although not confirmed, it probably also runs fine on Windows 11.
Download SpywareBlaster
Adaware Antivirus
What We Like
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Checks for spyware automatically, all the time
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Lets you run scheduled spyware scans
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Definitions are updated automatically
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Finds other threats, too
What We Don’t Like
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It’s missing several features found only in the Adaware Pro and Total editions
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Discontinued, but still available for download
Adaware Antivirus is another anti-spyware program that actively blocks new threats as well as scans the computer for existing ones. It has a clean, new design and isn’t hard to use.
This program is unlike some anti-spyware tools because it does update on its own and can even run a full system scan on a schedule.
While it doesn’t provide active web, email, or network protection, when it comes to spyware, you can be confident that it will do everything it can to stop and remove those threats.
Like most always-on antimalware programs, Adaware supports silent/gaming mode and exclusions. It can also scan boot sectors, rootkits, archives, processes, cookies, and registry items.
Their website says the program can be installed on Windows 10, Windows 8, and Windows 7. I’ve tested it on and off over the years, in Windows 11 and Windows 10.
Download Adaware Antivirus
ComboFix
What We Like
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A spyware scan runs automatically when you start the program
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Important files get backed up automatically before deleting any spyware
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Installation isn’t required
What We Don’t Like
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Results are hard to read
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No graphical user interface
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Windows 11 and 10 aren’t supported
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No longer receives updates
This is very much a hands-off, on-demand spyware scanner. After downloading it, open ComboFix.exe to immediately start the whole process.
Here’s how it works: ComboFix backs up the Windows Registry before anything else, followed by the creation of a System Restore point. After that, the scan starts automatically, and you see the results populate in Command Prompt.
When the spyware scan is complete, a log file is created at C:\ComboFix.txt and then opened for you to read through. It’s there that you can see if any spyware was detected and removed and which ones were found but not removed (which you can delete manually or use another tool to remove).
Overall, despite the text interface, I found the program easy to use, and it finished scanning in under 15 minutes. But since it only works on Windows 8 (not 8.1), 7, Vista, and XP, it’s definitely not something everyone can use.
Download ComboFix
More Not-So-Free Spyware Removers
The following are some other programs that are not free but do provide constant, always-on anti-spyware shields as well as on-demand spyware scanners/removers and automatic updates:
- Norton AntiVirus Plus: A huge name in antivirus software. The other non-basic editions have more features but are also more expensive.
- Zemana AntiMalware: Includes a browser add-on/toolbar cleaner and has a very simple interface that makes it a cinch to protect your system from spyware.
- McAfee Total Protection: Includes a password manager to prevent spyware from collecting your credentials.
- Bitdefender Antivirus Plus: Light on system resources and can be set up with Autopilot to silently protect against threats.
Most of these professional anti-spyware programs can be tried for free for a week or so, usually up to 30 days, so make sure to check those out before committing to purchasing something.
How to Spot Spyware
You might have a spyware infection if your computer’s performance has recently started to suffer (especially if strange pop-ups are showing up), websites are redirecting to places you don’t want to go, email contacts are getting odd spam messages that appear to be from you, or you’re a victim of identity theft.
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