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How to remove spyware

Many kinds of unwanted software, including spyware, are designed to be difficult to remove. If you try to uninstall this software like any other program, you might find that the program reappears as soon as you restart your computer.

Where to get antispyware software

If you're having trouble uninstalling unwanted software, you might need a tool to do the job for you. Microsoft Security Essentials is a free consumer anti-malware solution that will help you remove spyware. It also helps protect your computer from spyware, viruses, and other malicious software. It's available as a no-cost download for Windows XP SP2 and higher, Windows Vista, and Windows 7.

Several other companies also offer free and low-cost software that will check your computer for spyware and other unwanted software and help you remove it.

Keep in mind that removing unwanted software with these tools might mean you will no longer be able to use a free program that came with the spyware.

Beware of fake antispyware software

Cyber criminals know that we want to keep our computers safe from spyware. They will often try to trick us with fake security software known as "rogue security software" or "scareware." This is software that appears to be beneficial from a security perspective but provides limited or no security, generates misleading alerts, or attempts to lure you into participating in fraudulent transactions.

For more information, see Watch out for fake alerts.

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