Spyware and Adware
are not only an ever increasing nuisance for computer users everywhere, but
also a booming industry. According to Webroot Software, Inc., the
distribution of online advertisements through spyware and adware has become a
$2 billion industry.
The aggressive
advertising and spying tactics demonstrated by some of these programs, require
an equally aggressive response from a seasoned eradicator. Sunbelt Software is such a company. A leader in Anti-Spyware, Anti-Spam, Network Security and System Management tools,
they gave consistently remained on the cutting-edge of anti-spyware programming
since 1994.
One of their more notable software applications is CounterSpy 1.5. CounterSpy is designed to detect and remove
spyware that is already in your computer system. Additionally, it provides real-time
protection while preventing browser hijacking and changes to your computer’s
Registry.
Other notable features include:
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Detection and Removal of Tracking Cookies – while it
is true that applications like Microsoft AntiSpyware Beta are free, they do not
include the ability to detect and remove tracking cookies like CounterSpy does.
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History Cleaner - erases any traceable trails left on
your computer as you surf the Internet.
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Secure File Eraser - a powerful deletion tool that
can completely eliminate all files you want removed from your computer
including images, music, movies and applications.
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PC Explorer - allows you a look into files and areas
that are normally inconvenient to access, such as your startup programs,
browser helper objects, and ActiveX programs that are being downloaded or used.
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Support for Older Operating Systems – includes
Windows 98SE, Windows ME, and Windows NT.
Recommended by PC
World, ConsumerSearch, and Dell, CounterSpy holds one of the highest effective
ratings for spyware removal. It also
received high marks from TopTenReviews (2006) for ease of use,
customization/installation, and help/support.
For only $19.95 per machine, users can receive a one year subscription
with updates, upgrades, and technical support from real live humans. CounterSpy definitely provides ease of use
and affordability for just about any computer user from the novice to the
expert.