SpywareBlaster

What is it and where can I get it?

SpywareBlaster is a malware prevention tool. It does not scan your system for spyware and adware, nor can it remove threats that have already infected your system. Rather, SpywareBlaster helps prevent malware and tracking cookies from entering your system in the first place.

According to the webpage, SpywareBlaster can:

* Prevent ActiveX-based malware from infesting your system.

* Block tracking cookies from being added to your system when using Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox.

* Prevent possible malicious sites from performing trusted activities in Internet Explorer.

SpywareBlaster is available from Javacool Software at: http://www.javacoolsoftware.com/spywareblaster.html - just download the installer, setup the software, and tell SpywareBlaster to "Enable all Protection". SpywareBlaster will then set up protections for Internet Explorer and Mozilla / Firefox (if you also use that web browser).

Note that SpywareBlaster will not protect you from everything - you should still run other spyware / adware scanners such as Spybot S&D, Ad Aware, and Windows Defender.

Also, note that since SpywareBlaster is very aggressive in blocking access to certain sites or cookies, there is a chance that you may be unable to visit certain websites with SpywareBlaster. Other tips in this section discuss how you can prevent SpywareBlaster from blocking certain sites or cookies.

Updating SpywareBlaster

Just as you must update your antivirus software due to new virus threats, SpywareBlaster must be updated so it can help protect your machine against new spyware / adware threats.

(Note the following instructions are for SpywareBlaster 3.2 - later versions may have similar update procedures.)

To update SpywareBlaster, run the software, and then click "Download Latest Protection Updates". Click the "Check for Updates" button. If updates are available, enable protection for all unprotected items.