SpyPry logiguard.com

spypry.com ridiculous false positives; variant of known known family of app [A: 6-14-05 / U: 6-17-05]

Spy Reaper spyreaper.com ridiculous false positives; uses inadequate detection scheme; same app as Froggie Scan, Privacy Crusader, SpyShield, SpyViper, Spyware IT, Spyware Scrapper, & The Spyware Shield [A: 2-14-06 / U: 2-14-06]

SpyRemover rizalsoftware.com false positives work as goad to purchase; uses out-of-date reference database w/ no update function; same app as SpyCleaner -- Note: not to be confused with SpyRemover from itcompany.com [A: 8-10-04 / U: 1-8-05]

SpySheriff spysheriff.com

spy-sheriff.com

spyware-cash.com

antispynow.com

fzyonline.com

anosurfer.com aggressive advertising, reported stealth-installs (1, 2, 3); false positives work as goad to purchase; inadequate scan reporting; same app as Brave Sentry, DIARemover, MalwareAlarm, Mr.AntiSpy, PestCapture, PestTrap, PestWiper, SpyDemolisher, SpyMarshal, SpyTrooper, SpywareNo, & Spyware-Stop [A: 6-1-05 / U: 6-1-05]

SpyShield spyshield.org ridiculous false positives; uses inadequate detection scheme; uses out of date ref database; same app as Froggie Scan, Privacy Crusader, Spy Reaper, SpyViper, Spyware IT, Spyware Scrapper, & The Spyware Shield [A: 2-24-06 / U: 2-24-06]

Spy-Shield spy- shield.com aggressive/deceptive advertising, installs DirectRevenue/BestOffersNetwork (1); uses inadequate scan/detection scheme [A: 3-6-06 / U: 3-6-06]

Spy Sniper pimasoft.com false positives work as goad to purchase [A: 10-30-05 / U: 10-30-05]

Spy Sniper Pro spysniper.net promoted through spam (1); no trial version available [A: 8-21-05 / U: 8-21-05]

SpySoldier spysoldier.com aggressive, deceptive advertising (1); same app as Spyware Knight [A: 12-28-06 / U: 12-28-06]

SpySpotter spyspotter.com aggressive/deceptive advertising, advertised via adware (1); same app as #1 Spyware Killer, Max Privacy Protector, SpyDoctor, SpyFirewall, Spyinator, SpyKiller 2005, SpyLax, SpywareThis, & Spyware Protection Pro; Ad-aware knockoff [A: 8-9-04 / U: 4-22-07]

Spy Stalker spystalker.com ridiculous false positives work as goad to purchase [A: 10-19-05 / U: 10-19-05]

Spy Striker spystriker.com

bulletproofsoft.com front end for BPS Spyware & Adware Remover [A: 3-25-05 / U: 3-25-05]

SpyToaster spytoaster.com false positives work as goad to purchase; flawed, inadequate detection scheme (1); inadequate information about company; no privacy policy (1); same app as Adware-Nuker, AGuardDog Adware/Spyware Remover, PC AdWare SpyWare Removal, SafeWebSurfer, SpywareHospital, Super Spyware Remover, The Spyware Detective, & WebSafe Spyware Secure [A: 5-6-05 / U: 5-6-05]

SpyTrooper spy-trooper.com

spytrooper.com

spyware-cash.com aggressive/deceptive advertising, stealth installs (1, 2, 3); same app as Brave Sentry, DIARemover, MalwareAlarm, Mr.AntiSpy, PestCapture, PestTrap, PestWiper, SpyDemolisher, SpyMarshal, SpySheriff, SpywareNo, Spyware-Stop [A: 9-10-05 / U: 9-10-05]

SpyVampire spyvampire.com false positives work as goad to purchase [A: 5-4-07 / U: 5-4-07]

SpyVest spyvest.com poor scan reporting; variant of NoSpyX, SpywareCleaner, Spyware Slayer, Spyware Stormer, Spyware Wizard, & X-Spyware (1); Ad-aware knockoff [A: 7-20-04 / U: 4-13-05]

SpyViper spyviper.com

spyxpress.com false positives work as goad to purchase; uses inadequate detection scheme; uses outdated ref database; same app as Froggie Scan, Privacy Crusader, Spy Reaper, SpyShield, Spyware IT, Spyware Scrapper, & The Spyware Shield [A: 12-14-05 / U: 12-14-05]

Spyware & Adware Removal synergeticsoft.com uses flawed, inadequate detection scheme [A: 2-14-06 / U: 2-14-06]

Spyware Annihilator solidlabs.com aggressive, deceptive advertising (1, 2); false positives work as goad to purchase; no update function [A: 6-26-04 / U: 6-26-04]

SpywareAssassin spywareassassin.com

maxtheater.com

xp67.com aggressive, deceptive advertising (1, 2); vendor prosecuted by FTC (1, 2); false positives work as goad to purchase; no EULA/Privacy Policy; uses out-of-date reference database; same app as Adware Hitman, Consumer Identity, Protect Your Identity, SpyBan, Spyware C.O.P., SpywareKilla, The Adware Hunter, & TheSpywareKiller [A: 7-4-04 / U: 3-11-05]

SpywareAvenger spywareavenger.com

idownload.com no trial version locatable; company is known adware distributor (1); "strict no-refund policy"; advertises through adware (1); "negative option" coupled w/ outrageous pricing [A: 9-22-04 / U: 12-28-04]

Spyware B1aster spyware-b1aster-software.com no trial version locatable online; inadequate info about company & app (1); exploits name SpywareBlaster (note: should not be confused with the JavaCool app of the same name) [A: 3-25-05 / U: 3-25-05]

Spyware Bomber spywarebomber.com

websoftsecure.com false positives work as goad to purchase; vendor connected w/ known spyware/adware distributor (1, 2); no trial version publicly available [A: 8-24-05 / U: 10-24-05]

SpywareBot spywarebot.com exploits name "Spybot Search & Destroy"; same app as AdwareAlert [A: 5-14-06 / U: 1-9-07]

SpywareCleaner checkforspyware.com/sc/

myspywarecleaner.com/sc/

spywarecleanerdownload2.com

spywarecleaneronline.biz vendor prosecuted by Washington AG (1, 2); aggressive, deceptive advertising (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6); exploits name "hijack this" (1); uses insecure ordering page (1); variant of NoSpyX, SpyVest, Spyware Slayer, Spyware Stormer, Spyware Wizard, & X-Spyware (1); Ad-aware knockoff - (Note: other domains associated w/ this app include: spw2a.com/sc/, spw2f.com/sc/, spw3e.com/sc/, spw4.com/sc/, spw8.com) [A: 6-26-04 / U: 2-12-06]

Spyware Cleaner spywarecure.net false positives work as goad to purchase [A: 11-17-05 / U: 11-17-05]

Spyware Cleaner & Pop-Up Blocker --- inadequate info about app and company; no trial version locatable online (1, 2) - (Note: distributed by GameMill publishing / Educational Initiatives Group; same company as for Spyware Suite 2005; alt. app names incl. AntiSpy & PopStopper; bundled w/ Net Cleaner & PC Accelerator; all apps branded "SpyMagic") [A: 7-7-04 / U: 7-7-04]

Spyware Cops spywarecops.com

bulletproofsoft.com front end for BPS Spyware & Adware Remover [A: 3-5-05 / U: 3-5-05]

Spyware C.O.P. spyware-cop.com aggressive advertising (1); false positives work as goad to purchase; same app as Adware Hitman, Consumer Identity, Protect Your Identity, SpyBan, SpywareAssassin, SpywareKilla, The Adware Hunter, & TheSpywareKiller [A: 6-26-04 / U: 7-16-04]

SpywareCrusher spywarecrusher.com no update function [A: 6-26-04 / U: 6-26-04]

Spyware Defense spywaredefense.com false positives work as goad to purchase; dubious corp. associations (1) [A: 9-4-05 / U: 9-4-05]

Spyware Destroyer spyware-destroyer.com inadequate info about app, no trial version locatable; home page uses same "free scan" as NetSpyProtector; "free scan" prone to false positives (1) [A: 10-10-04 / U: 10-10-04]

Spyware Disinfector spywaredisinfector.com uses flawed, inadequate detection scheme; same app as AdwarePunisher, HitSpy, RemedyAntiSpy, SpyCut, SpyiBlock, SystemStable, & The SpyGuard [A: 3-10-06 / U: 3-10-06]

SpywareHospital spywarehospital.com false positives work as goad to purchase (1); flawed, inadequate detection scheme (1); inadequate information about app & company; no privacy policy; same app as Adware-Nuker, AGuardDog Adware/Spyware Remover, PC AdWare SpyWare Removal, SafeWebSurfer, SpyToaster, Super Spyware Remover, The Spyware Detective, & WebSafe Spyware Secure [A: 11-7-05 / U: 11-7-05]

SpywareHound spywarehound.com advertises with/through known parasite (1); inadequate information about application [A: 10-24-04 / U: 10-24-04]

Spyware Immobilizer halt-spyware.com

haltspyware.info no trial version available for testing; inadequate info about company & app; no privacy policy; uses insecure order page [A: 4-7-05 / U: 4-7-05]

Spyware IT spywareit.com no trial version available for testing; same app as Froggie Scan, Privacy Crusader, Spy Reaper, SpyShield, SpyViper, Spyware Scrapper, & The Spyware Shield (1) [A: 4-11-07 / U: 4-11-07]

SpywareKilla spywarekilla.com aggressive advertising (1); false positives work as goad to purchase; same app as Adware Hitman, Consumer Identity, Protect Your Identity, SpyBan, SpywareAssassin, Spyware C.O.P., The Adware Hunter, & TheSpywareKiller [A: 6-26-04 / U: 7-16-04]

Spyware Knight spywareknight.com aggressive, deceptive advertising (1); same app as SpySoldier [A: 12-28-06 / U: 12-28-06]

Spyware Medic rosecitysoftware.com false positives work as goad to purchase - Note: publisher asserts that this product has been discontinued [A: 3-11-05 / U: 10-23-06]

SpywareNo! spywareno.com

spyware-cash.com aggressive advertising, reported stealth-installs (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6); false positives work as goad to purchase; inadequate scan reporting; same app as Brave Sentry, DIARemover, MalwareAlarm, Mr.AntiSpy, PestCapture, PestTrap, PestWiper, SpyDemolisher, SpyTrooper, SpyMarshal, SpySheriff, & Spyware-Stop [A: 5-21-05 / U: 6-1-05]

Spyware & Pop-Up Utility softwareoasis.cc inadequate, confusing info about app on home page; no trial version locatable [A: 7-9-04 / U: 7-9-04]

Spyware & Pest Remover spyware-pest-remover.com false positives work as goad to purchase; falsely reports updating defs database; inadequate info about company & app (1) [A: 1-13-05 / U: 1-13-05]

Spyware Protection Pro 3bsoftware.com false positives work as goad to purchase; earlier versions were same app as #1 Spyware Killer, Max Privacy Protector, SpyDoctor, SpyFirewall, Spyinator, SpyKiller 2005, SpyLax, SpySpotter; & SpywareThis; Ad-aware knockoff [A: 12-14-04 / U: 8-14-05]

Spyware Quake spywarequake.com

spywarequake.info aggressive/deceptive advertising, stealth installs (1, 2); uses inadequate scan/detection scheme; same app as SpyCrush, SpyDawn, SpyHeal, VirusBurst, & VirusBursters; associated w/ SpyAxe, SpyFalcon, SpywareStrike [A: 3-25-06 / U: 7-8-06]

SpwareRemoval spywareremoval.ws

platinumparter.com false positives work as goad to purchase; uses inadequate ref database; same app as AdwareDeluxe, AdwarePatrol, AdwareRemover, AdwareSafety, AdwareTools, AlertSpy, Doctor Adware, Doctor Adware Pro, PestBot, PestProtector, SpyAdvanced, SpyDestroy Pro, SpywareRemover, & SpywareXP; same company as MicroAntivirus [A: 3-25-05 / U: 3-25-05]

Spyware Removal Wizard spywareremovalwizard.com

xtremeinnovations.net false positives work as goad to purchase; inadequate scan results [A: 8-1-06 / U: 8-1-06]

Spyware Remover topics-ent.com no trial version locatable online; inadequate info about company & app (1) [A: 12-20-04 / U: 12-20-04]

Spyware Remover adware.privacy-solution.com uses flawed, inadequate detection scheme; uses out-of-date ref database [A: 4-7-05 / U: 4-7-05]

Spyware Remover alwaysfreealways.com stub downloader downloads & installs a completely different product (WindowsClenaer) [A: 10-5-06 / U: 10-5-06]

SpywareRemover hijack-this.com

msantispy.com

microsoftantispyware.net

microsoftantispy.com

free-spybot.com

spy-bot.com false positives work as goad to purchase; uses inadequate ref database; expolits name "spybot" (1, 2); exploits name "Microsoft AntiSpyware" (1, 2, 3); exploits name "Hijack This" (1); same app as AdwareDeluxe, AdwarePatrol, AdwareRemover, AdwareSafety, AdwareTools, AlertSpy, Doctor Adware, Doctor Adware Pro, PestBot, PestProtector, SpyAdvanced, SpyDestroy Pro, SpywareRemoval, & SpywareXP; same company as MicroAntivirus [A: 3-25-05 / U: 9-18-05]

SpywareRemover spy-ware-remover.com front for BPS Spyware & Adware Remover (itself an Ad-aware rip-off); associated w/ SpyForce.com [A: 6-26-04 / U: 6-26-04]

Spyware Scrapper spywarescrapper.com uses inadequate detection scheme; uses outdated ref database; same app as Froggie Scan, Privacy Crusader, Spy Reaper, SpyShield, SpyViper, Spyware IT, & The Spyware Shield [A: 5-7-06 / U: 5-7-06]

SpyWare Secure spyware-secure.com scaremongering scan results summary [A: 5-4-07 / U: 5-4-07]

Spyware Sheriff spywaresheriff.com

antispylab.com aggressive/deceptive advertising, stealth installation (1); uses inadequate scan/detection scheme; same app as AdwareDelete, AntiVirus Gold, MalwareWiped, SpyAxe, SpyFalcon, SpyLocked, SpywareStrike, TitanShield AntiSpyware, & VirusBlast [A: 5-7-06 / U: 5-7-06]

Spyware Slayer freepcscan.com aggressive advertising (1); false positives work as goad to purchase; questionable EULA/Privacy Policy (1, 2, 3); included in SurfSafe; variant of NoSpyX, SpyVest, SpywareCleaner, Spyware Stormer, Spyware Wizard, & X-Spyware (1); Ad-aware knockoff [A: 10-10-04 / U: 9-8-05]

Spyware Sledgehammer spywaresledgehammer.com inadequate info about app & company, no privacy policy (1); uses inadequate ref database & scan detection scheme [A: 2-3-06 / U: 2-3-06]

Spyware Soft Stop spywaresoftstop.com

spywaresoftstop-cash.com app plants the very files it falsely detects as malware (1); aggressive, deceptive advertising (1); false positives work as goad to purchase [A: 4-17-06 / U: 4-17-06]

Spyware Stormer spywarestormer.com aggressive advertising (1, 2, 3, 4); drive-by-downloading (1); false positives work as goad to purchase (1); variant of NoSpyX, SpyVest, SpywareCleaner, Spyware Wizard, & Spyware Slayer (1); Ad-aware knockoff [A: 6-26-04 / U: 7-20-04]

SpywareStrike spywarestrike.com aggressive/deceptive advertising, desktop hijacking (1); uses inadequate scan/detection scheme; same app as AdwareDelete, AntiVirus Gold, MalwareWiped, SpyAxe, SpyFalcon, SpyLocked, Spyware Sheriff, TitanShield AntiSpyware, & VirusBlast [A: 1-5-06 / U: 1-5-06]

Spyware-Stop spyware-stop.com false positives work as goad to purchase; inadequate scan reporting; same app as Brave Sentry, DIARemover, MalwareAlarm, Mr.AntiSpy, PestCapture, PestTrap, PestWiper, SpyDemolisher, SpyMarshal, SpySheriff, SpyTrooper, & SpywareNo [A: 1-16-06 / U: 1-16-06]

Spyware Suite 2005 --- inadequate info about app and company; no trial version locatable online (1) - (Note: distributed by GameMill publishing / Educational Initiatives Group; same company as for Spyware Cleaner & Pop-Ip Blocker) [A: 12-20-04 / U: 12-20-04]

SpywareTek / Spyware Removal System spywaretek.com false positives work as goad to purchase; inadequate info about company & app (1); no privacy policy; inadequate ref database; requires installation of Microsoft .NET framework [A: 12-7-04 / U: 12-7-04]

SpywareThis spywarethis.com

achtungachtung.com false positives work as goad to purchase; no update function; same app as #1 Spyware Killer, Max Privacy Protector, SpyDoctor, SpyFirewall, Spyinator, SpyKiller 2005, SpyLax, SpySpotter, & Spyware Protection Pro; Ad-aware knockoff [A: 6-26-04 / U: 6-26-04]

Spyware Wizard spywarewizard.com

spywarewizard.net aggressive, deceptive advertising, browser hijacking (1, 2); variant of NoSpyX, SpyVest, SpywareCleaner, Spyware Slayer, Spyware Stormer, & X-Spyware (1) [A: 3-12-05 / U: 12-6-05]

SpywareXP spywarexp.com false positives work as goad to purchase; uses inadequate ref database; same app as AdwareDeluxe, AdwarePatrol, AdwareRemover, AdwareSafety, AdwareTools, AlertSpy, Doctor Adware, Doctor Adware Pro, PestBot, PestProtector, SpyAdvanced, SpyDestroy Pro, SpywareRemoval, & SpywareRemover; same company as MicroAntivirus [A: 3-18-06 / U: 3-18-06]

SpywareZapper spywarezapper.com front for TZ Spyware Adware Remover (download link is for TZ Spyware Adware Remover, itself a BPS Spyware & Adware Remover clone) [A: 6-26-04 / U: 6-26-04]

SpyWiper mailwiper.com deceptive advertising, browser hijacking, drive-by-downloading (1, 2, 3); vendor prosecuted by FTC (1, 2, 3); same company as SpyDeleter (1, 2, 3, 4); no trial version locatable [A: 6-26-04 / U: 6-26-04]

StopGuard stopguard.com

genericscanner.com

vantagesoftware.com aggressive advertising, browser hijacking (1, 2, 3); dubious corp. associations (1); false positives used as goad to purchase; poor scan reporting; no EULA or privacy policy; inadequate info about company; no uninstaller [A: 8-30-04 / U: 9-9-04]

StopItBlockIt 2005 stopitblockit.com false positives work as goad to purchase; inadequate info about company; no privacy policy [A: 3-11-05 / U: 3-11-05]

Super Spyware Remover shareware4web.com false positives work as goad to purchase (1); flawed, inadequate detection scheme (1); inadequate info about company & program, no end user privacy policy (1); same app as Adware-Nuker, AGuardDog Adware/Spyware Remover, PC AdWare SpyWare Removal, SafeWebSurfer, SpyToaster, SpywareHospital, The Spyware Detective, & WebSafe Spyware Secure [A: 10-20-04 / U: 3-27-05]

System Detective affiliatesuccess.net

jeanharris.com

spyware-removal.net

systemdetective.com inadequate info about app, no end user privacy policy (1); no trial version locatable; parent company primarily an affiliate program (1) [A: 6-27-04 / U: 6-27-04]

SystemStable systemstable.com aggressive, deceptive advertising ; false positives work as goad to purchase; same app as AdwareBazooka, AdwarePunisher, HitSpy, RemedyAntiSpy, SpyCut, SpyiBlock, Spyware Disinfector, & TheSpyGuard [A: 12-8-05 / U: 12-8-05]

TeoSoft Anti-Spyware teosoft.com

teosoft.biz

teocash.com

shootspyware.com "free scan" severely crippled; company uses spam to promote products (1) [A: 9-14-05 / U: 9-14-05]

Terminexor terminexor.com unauthorized Spybot Search & Destroy clone (1, 2); no privacy policy or EULA [A: 12-23-04 / U: 12-23-04]

The Adware Hunter theadwarehunter.com deceptive detection reports (1); prone to inexcusable false positives (1); uses out-of-date reference database (1); same app as Adware Hitman, Consumer Identity, Protect Your Identity, SpyBan, SpywareAssassin, Spyware C.O.P., SpywareKilla, & TheSpywareKiller [A: 8-7-04 / U: 8-7-04]

The SpyGuard thespyguard.com

the-spy-guard.com

adwarepunisher.com aggressive, deceptive advertising (1, 2, 3); uses flawed, inadequate detection scheme; same app as AdwareBazooka, AdwarePunisher, HitSpy, RemedyAntiSpy, SpyCut, SpyiBlock, Spyware Disinfector, & SystemStable [A: 12-5-05 / U: 12-21-05]

The Spyware Detective thespywaredetective.com

fastlink2.com false positives work as goad to purchase (1); flawed, inadequate detection scheme (1); same app as Adware-Nuker, AGuardDog Adware/Spyware Remover, PC AdWare SpyWare Removal, SafeWebSurfer, SpyToaster,SpywareHospital, Super Spyware Remover, & WebSafe Spyware Secure [A: 12-21-04 / U: 3-27-05]

TheSpywareKiller thespywarekiller.com

inicom.dk deceptive detection reports (1); false positives work as goad to purchase (1); uses out-of-date reference database (1); same app as Adware Hitman, Consumer Identity, Protect Your Identity, SpyBan, SpywareAssassin, Spyware C.O.P., SpywareKilla, & The Adware Hunter [A: 7-17-04 / U: 7-17-04]

The Spyware Shield thespywareshield.com ridiculous false positives; uses inadequate detection scheme; same app as Froggie Scan, Privacy Crusader, Spy Reaper, SpyShield, SpyViper, Spyware IT, & Spyware Scrapper [A: 2-14-06 / U: 2-14-06]

The Web Shield pcspytool.com no trial version locatable; same app as AdDriller, 2004 Adware/Spyware Remover & Blocker, ADS Adware Remover, AdwareSpy, AdWare SpyWare Blocker & Removal, AdwareX Eliminator, Ad-Where 2005, ETD Security Scanner, Privacy Tools 2004, Spy-Kill, & SpyBeware; Ad-aware knockoff [A: 7-7-04 / U: 7-7-04]

Titan AntiSpyware titanantispyware.com no trial version available; inadequate info about company & app [A: 10-30-05/ U: 10-30-05]

TitanShield AntiSpyware titanshield.com

a ntispywarebox.com

hotwinupdates.com

cashunlim.com app plants the very files it falsely detects as malware (1); aggressive, deceptive advertising, stealth installations (1); false positives work as goad to purchase; same app as AdwareDelete, AntiVirus Gold, MalwareWiped, SpyAxe, SpyFalcon, SpyLocked, Spyware Sheriff, SpywareStrike, & VirusBlast [A: 6-13-06 / U: 6-13-06]

TrueWatch truesuite.com false positives work as goad to purchase; "free scan" uses out-of-date reference database w/ no update function [A: 7-27-04 / U: 7-27-04]

Trust Cleaner trustcleaner.com aggressive/deceptive advertising, stealth installs (1); false positives work as goad to purchase [A: 6-13-06 / U: 3-7-07]

TZ Spyware Adware Remover trackzapper.com false positives work as goad to purchase; Ad-aware rip-off; BPS Spyware & Adware Remover clone [A: 6-26-04 / U: 6-26-04]

UControl whenu.com

aluriasoftware.com adware-supported (1, 2) -- Note: this app. has been discontinued. Read this note about UControl [A: 12-4-04 / U: 3-2-06]

Ultimate Cleaner ultimatecleaner.com adware-supported (1, 2); prone to ridiculous false positives [A: 12-28-04 / U: 12-28-04]

Ultimate Defender udefender.com uses flawed, inadequate detections scheme; same app as 1stAntiVirus, KillSpy, SpyDeface, SpyContra, & XSRemover [A: 3-1-06 / U: 3-9-06]

Ultimate Spyware-Adware Remover pimasoft.com false positives work as goad to purchase; same app as #1 Spyware Killer, Max Privacy Protector, SpyDoctor, SpyFirewall, Spyinator, SpyKiller 2005, SpyLax, SpySpotter, SpywareThis, & Spyware Protection Pro; Ad-aware knockoff [A: 4-17-06 / U: 4-17-06]

UnSpyPC unspypc.com false positives work as goad to purchase (1, 2, 3); inadequate/flawed scan/detection scheme; same app as KillAndClean & Safe & Clean [A: 9-5-05 / U: 4-12-06]

VBouncer/AdDestroyer spywarelabs.com

virtualbouncer.com drive-by-downloads (1, 2); resident scanner w/ little feedback/control; questionable license terms (1, 2) [A: 6-26-04 / U: 6-26-04]

VirusBlast virusblast.com aggressive, deceptive advertising, stealth installations (1); false positives work as goad to purchase; same app as AdwareDelete, AntiVirus Gold, MalwareWiped, SpyAxe, SpyFalcon, SpyLocked, Spyware Sheriff, SpywareStrike, & TitanShield AntiSpyware [A: 8-1-06 / U: 8-1-06]

VirusBurst virusburst.com aggressive, deceptive advertising (1), uses inadequate scan/detection scheme; same app as SpyCrush, SpyDawn, SpyHeal, SpywareQuake, & VirusBursters [A: 10-5-06 / U: 10-5-06]

VirusBursters myspyprotector.com variant of VirusBurst (1); uses inadequate scan/detection scheme; same app as SpyCrush, SpyDawn, SpyHeal, SpywareQuake, & VirusBurst [A: 11-12-06 / U: 11-12-06]

VirusGuard virusguard.com no trial version locatable [A: 2-3-06 / U: 2-3-06]

VirusRescue virusrescue.com aggressive, deceptive advertising, stealth installations (1) [A: 8-21-06 / U: 8-21-06]

WareOut Spyware Remover wareout.com aggressive advertising (1); drive-by-downloads (1, 2); false positives work as goad to purchase; uses inadequate ref database [A: 12-11-04 / U: 2-7-05]

WebSafe Spyware Secure websafesecure.com false positives work as goad to purchase (1); flawed, inadequate detection scheme (1); no privacy policy; same app as Adware-Nuker, AGuardDog Adware/Spyware Remover, PC AdWare SpyWare Removal, SafeWebSurfer, SpyToaster, SpywareHospital, Super Spyware Remover, & The Spyware Detective [A: 3-27-04 / U: 3-27-05]

WinAntiSpy 2005 winantispy.com

winsoftware.com

softwareprofit.com no trial version available; same company as WinAntiSpyware 2006, WinAntiVirus 2006, & WinFixer [A: 1-9-06 / U: 1-9-06]

WinAntiSpyware 2006 winantispyware.com

winsoftware.com

softwareprofit.com aggressive, deceptive advertising (1, 2, 3); same company as WinAntiSpy 2005, WinAntiVirus 2006, & WinFixer [A: 9-4-05 / U: 6-13-06]

WinAntiVirus 2006 winantivirus.com

winsoftware.com

softwareprofit.com aggressive advertising (1, 2, 3, 4); false positives work as goad to purchase; inappropriate collection of Personally Identifiable Information; same company as WinAntiSpy 2005, WinAntiSpyware 2006, & WinFixer [A: 5-21-05 / U: 6-13-06]

Winhound Spyware Remover winhound.com

innovagest2000.com stealth installs through exploits, system hijacking (1, 2, 3); scare-mongering used as goad to purchase; same company as AlfaCleaner, Anti Virus Pro, XSRemover [A: 11-29-05 / U: 1-14-06]

Winkeeper winkeeper.net uses flawed, inadequate detection scheme; exploits name "Spyware Doctor" (1) [A: 6-9-05 / U: 6-9-05]

WinSOS winsos.com false positives work as goad to registration [A: 11-14-05 / U: 11-14-05]

WorldAntiSpy worldantispy.com aggressive, deceptive advertising (1, 2); desktop hijacks (1, 2, 3, 4) [A: 8-21-05 / U: 9-10-05]

X-Con Spyware Destroyer x-conspywaredestroyer.com

x-con.freedomofidiom.ca ridiculous false positives; poor, inadequate scan reporting [A: 4-2-06 / U: 4-2-06]

X-Spyware x-spyware.com false positives work as goad to purchase; uses flawed, inadequate detection scheme [A: 12-7-04 / U: 6-7-05]

Xmembytes AntiSpyware xmembytes.com uses stolen database; questionable license terms [A: 6-13-06 / U: 6-13-06]

Xspyware xspyware.net dubious license terms (1, 2); variant of NoSpyX, SpyVest, Spyware Cleaner, Spyware Slayer, Spyware Stormer, Spyware Wizard, & X-Spyware (1); Ad-aware knockoff [A: 12-7-04 / U: 1-29-05]

XSRemover xsremover.com

innovagest2000.com uses flawed, inadequate detections scheme; same company as AlfaCleaner, Anti Virus Pro, & Winhound Spyware Remover; same app as 1stAntiVirus, KillSpy, SpyContra, SpyDeface, & Ultimate Defender [A: 11-30-05 / U: 1-14-06]

ZoneProtect AntiSpyware zoneprotect.com app crashes after install; installs AdBlaster parasite ; inadequate info about company & app, no privacy policy (1) [A: 5-8-05 / U: 5-8-05]

Notes: Testing: Testing was performed with most of these apps. Apps not tested include: 2004 Adware/Spyware Remover & Blocker, about:blank 2005, AdProtector, Adware Hunter, AdwarePro, Adware & Spyware Firewall, Elimiware, AntiVirusAdvance, AntivirusPCSuite, Anti Virus Pro, BestGuardPlatinum, InternetAntiSpy, KillAllSpyware, MicroAntivirus, Oxford Spyware Remover, NetSpyProtector, PAL Emergency Response, PCArmor, SpyBlast, SpyBuster, SpyDeleter, SpyEliminator, SpyKillerPro,SpyWiper, SpywareAvenger, Spyware Cleaner & Pop-Up Blocker, Spyware Destroyer, Spyware Immobilizer, Spyware Remover (alwaysfreealways.com), System Detective, Spy Sniper Pro, Spyware B1aster, Spyware Remover, Spyware Striker Pro, Spyware Suite 2005, The Web Shield, Titan AntiSpyware, VirusGuard, WinAntiSpy 2005, XSRemover. False positives: In cases where it is noted "false positives work as goad to purchase," the apps in question produced inexcusable false positives on a "spyware-free" system (previously scanned with AVP 3.5, Trojan Hunter 4, Ad-aware SE, Spybot S&D 1.3, & Spy Sweeper 3) and then demanded payment to clean that non-existent "spyware"/"adware." Scan logs, reference database files, screenshots, and other related files from the tests have been archived. "Ridiculous false positives" are noted in cases where an app produced inexcusable false positives on a "spyware free" system but did not demand payment to clean that non-existent "spyware" / "adware." Poor scan reporting: This means that the application either did not provide information about what it found (e.g., it simply reported "8 spyware items found" without identifying particular parasites by name) or did not report enough information about the basis for the items it found (e.g., it reported finding the Look2Me parasite, but did not report what Registry keys, files, or folders it had identified as Look2Me). Knockoffs/rip-offs: The term "knockoff" means at the very least that the app in question substantially imitates the look, feel, and experience of another program (usually Ad-aware). With some of these "knockoff" apps there may be evidence (e.g., scan logs) of more serious borrowing from other programs, but there are no specific allegations to that effect as yet from the affected parties. The term "rip-off" means that there are specific allegations from the affected parties of unauthorized borrowing from their applications (usually Ad-aware or Spybot Search & Destroy). See the Anti-Spyware Family Resemblances companion page for screenshots of most of these applications. (Screenshots for applications not included on the Family Resemblances page can be found on the Orphans & Outcasts page.) Aggressive/deceptive advertising: "Aggressive" advertising consists of the obnoxious, intrusive, use of pop-ups, false GUI elements, or other advertising techniques designed to badger, pressure, or coerce users into buying the application advertised. "Deceptive" advertising employs advertising techniques and information designed to create a false sense of alarm among users in order to stampede them into purchasing the application being advertised. Flawed, inadequate detection schemes: "Flawed, inadequate detection schemes" refer to scanning techniques that are insufficient to produce reliable detections of spyware, adware, and malware. These detection schemes typically rely exclusively on matching file names/path and Registry names/paths without using MD5 hash checking or signature matching to uniqiuely identify detected components. In some cases, there may be other problems with the detection scheme, such as failing to scan all drives on a system or skipping key system areas during scanning. Dates: Significant dates are listed in the format MM-DD-YY. A: date that entry for application was added to list; U: date that application was last checked/tested or entry was last significantly modified/updated.



Listing Criteria: When we evaluate an anti-spyware product, we look at the complete package, including the performance of the application itself as well as the advertising and marketing used to promote the product. The following practices are guaranteed to get a program listed as "rogue/suspect": 1. Installing adware, spyware, or malware



2. Hijacking users' browsers & desktops



3. Being installed by adware, spyware, or malware



4. Being regularly or frequently advertised through adware or spyware



5. Being aggressively or stealthily installed without users' full, knowing consent



6. Being pushed through aggressive, deceptive, or misleading advertising



7. Being offered by a known adware/spyware vendor or being strongly associated

with a site known to install malware



8. Using false, deceptive, misleading, or confusing scan reports or other GUI elements

to badger, coerce, or trick users into purchasing the product We also evaluate such things as: 1. Sophistication and comprehensiveness of the scan (including the design and execution

of the scan detection scheme)



2. Accuracy and reliability of the scan (including the nature and quantity of false positives)



3. Nature and accuracy of the scan reporting



4. Information about company and program available online



5. User reports of experiences with program



6. Currency of definitions Not every program will exhibit all of the problems listed above, and in some cases our decision to list a program as "rogue/suspect" is a judgment call based on our extensive knowledge of and experience with anti-spyware scanners. It is worth noting that quality anti-malware applications are difficult programs to develop and maintain. For information on what makes quality anti-malware applications difficult to develop and maintain, see these discussions: 1, 2, 3. Properly evaluating anti-spyware applications and the advertising used to promote them can also present challenges. For information on the problems associated with evaluating anti-spyware applications, see these discussions: 1, 2. False positives, in particular, are tricky to evaluate, since all anti-malware scanners will produce false positives as some point. For discussions of how we evaluate false positives, see these forum threads: 1, 2, 3. Note to Readers:



Please keep in mind that anti-spyware applications can appear on this list for a variety of reasons. On the low end, some applications might have a problem with egregious false positives or a poorly designed and implemented scan engine. On the high (dangerous) end, some of these applications might hijack users' PCs or install adware, spyware, or malware themselves. For each application we list the specific problems that we observed, and readers should take care not to make unwarranted assumptions about applications beyond the problems that we specifically list on this page.



Put another way, the characterization "rogue/suspect" does not mean that every product listed on this page is a "scam" or that every product listed here is "dangerous" and installs malware itself. It simply means that in light of the established, proven alternatives that exist, we cannot recommend that users rely on the apps listed on this page. For Vendors: De-listing Process We have de-listed applications from the Rogue/Suspect Anti-Spyware page when the vendors of those programs have made sufficient changes or corrections to their programs or advertising/marketing to warrant a de-listing. When an application is de-listed, an entry for the program remains in the main list, however, that entry serves only to point to an explanatory note in the De-Listed Applications section below. After the application has been de-listed for one year, we remove the entry for the program from the main list, however, the explanatory note remains. Vendors who wish to dispute a listing on this page and request a review of their products may email Spyware Warrior. In that email, vendors should clearly lay out their reasons for disputing a listing and requesting a review. Reasonable requests for review will be given timely and careful consideration. Threats will not only be disregarded, they will be publicized and discussed on this page and elsewhere on the Net. Vendors who are interested in disputing a listing on this page and requesting a review of their products are strongly encouraged to read THIS discussion thread at Spyware Warrior. Please note that it is our policy to restrict vendors to one review every three months. Once a product has been reviewed, we will not reconsider a decision to continue listing the product until three months time has lapsed. One final note: although we will provide feedback to explain our decisions to continue listing programs on this page, it is not our responsibility to fix vendors' products. Thus, we will not be drawn into extended discussions in which we essentially provide free consulting for vendors. By turns, it is our policy to refuse all requests to perform consulting in return for compensation from vendors whose products are listed on this page. The reviews we provide are free, however, they are limited to providing sufficient explanation to justify the listing of an application on the Rogue/Suspect Anti-Spyware page.



Special Cases: Occasionally there is additional information about the applications listed above that cannot be fit into the standard note form used in the main list itself. In such instances, additional information is provided below.



Note on Privacy Tools 2004: On August 27, 2004 a new version of Privacy Tools 2004 was released. Included in the license for this new version are three clauses that prevent me from reporting on the performance of this new version of Privacy Tools 2004 or displaying images of it:

3. COPYRIGHT.

All title and copyrights in and to the software product (including but not limited to any

images, photographs, animations, video, audio, music, text, and "applets" incorporated into

the software product), the accompanying printed materials, and any copies of the software

product are owned by the Author of this Software. The software product is protected by

copyright laws and international treaty provisions. Therefore, you must treat the software

product like any other copyrighted material except that you may install the software product

on a single computer provided you keep the original solely for backup or archival purposes. [...] 12. By using this software you agree not to take or use screenshots of the software and

understand doing so will result in legal action being taken against you. You understand

Screenshots are copyrighted protected material of the software owner. 13. By using this software you agree that you are not the owner of, affiliated with, or a

member of spywarewarrior.com The last version that I tested (a beta version) still generated horrendous, inexcusable false positives just like its predecessor (1). Whether the final release also does so I cannot say, as I have been unable to test the software. Clearly the vendor for Privacy Tools 2004 wants to shut up critics and prevent critical information about his software from being disseminated. Moreover, the vendor for Privacy Tools 2004 has threatened to distribute malware himself (1), making him a completely irresponsible source for anti-spyware protection. Thus, my recommendation to users is to stay away, as the software and the vendor cannot be considered trustworthy or reliable in my opinion.



Note on UControl: UControl was an adware-supported anti-spyware program offered by the well-known adware vendor WhenU (1, 2). The UControl anti-spyware scan engine was supplied by Aluria Software, makers of Aluria Spyware Eliminator, a well-known anti-spyware program. On Oct. 27, 2004 Aluria announced that it had "certified" WhenU's adware applications as "Spyware-Safe" (1). Within days after that announcement it became known that Aluria had decided not just to stop presenting WhenU applications to users as "spyware" or "adware" (1) -- it had decided to partner with WhenU and offer an adware-supported anti-spyware scanner (1, 2) through WhenU's WhenUSearch toolbar. (Aluria has also supplied the scan engine for the America Online [AOL] Spyware Protection program, though AOL apparently stipulated that WhenU would remain targeted within that application. [1]) Sometime during the course of 2005 (the exact timing is unclear) WhenU and Aluria discontinued their partnership and WhenU stopped distributing UControl. As explained in my several postings to the DSLReports.com Security forum (1), it is important to recognize that there are two distinct and separate issues here: 1) Aluria's decision to "certify" WhenU as "Spyware-Safe"; 2) Aluria's decision to partner with WhenU, an adware vendor. Even if WhenU merited certification because of improvements to its privacy practices (a point we dispute), Aluria should never have entered into a partnership with an adware vendor because of the serious conflict of interest problems that such a deal raises. Not only did it put Aluria in the untenable position of having a financial stake in the adware advertising market, but Aluria and WhenU were offering a anti-spyware scanner that removes competitors to WhenU. That undeniable conflict of interest made both Aluria and WhenU untrustworthy sources for an anti-spyware program, and other reputable critics agreed with this assessment (1, 2, 3, 4, 5). It should be noted that several reputable anti-spyware companies have also been approached by adware vendors looking for similar deals (1, 2, 3, 4). They all refused on principle, as one would expect an anti-spyware firm to do. In choosing to partner with WhenU, however, Aluria effectively decided to keep company with other disreputable vendors that bundle adware with their anti-spyware programs (1, 2), all of which are listed on this page. Just why Aluria and WhenU ended their relationship in 2005 is unknown. Even putting aside the controversy over the Aluria/WhenU deal, we simply cannot recommend an anti-spyware scanner that bundles adware, as the UControl scanner did, given that there are a number of excellent adware-free alternatives available to those looking for an anti-spyware scanner (1, 2). In this judgment we are completely consistent with our earlier decisions to list other anti-spyware applications that are adware-supported or that install spyware. Neither can we recommend Aluria's Spyware Eliminator in the light of Aluria's earlier decision to partner with WhenU, for all the reasons elaborated above. Note: At one time, you could read Aluria's several responses to criticism of its partnership with WhenU here: 1, 2, 3. At present, the first two articles have been removed from Aluria's web site (the interview with Aluria still remains at CastleCops.com). You can still read WhenU's defense of its privacy practices here: 1, 2. [A: 12-4-04 / U: 3-4-06]

Note on Trustsoft AntiSpyware: In August 2005, Trustsoft released its new anti-spyware product, Trustsoft AntiSpyware. We have tested and reviewed this product and can find nothing in the performance of the product itself to suggest that it should be listed here on the Rogue/Suspect Anti-Spyware page. Nonetheless, we do urge users to exercise caution with this product, as the vendor behind this product was prosecuted by the Federal Trade Commission in June of 2005 for a range of unfair and deceptive practices related to the company's earlier anti-spyware product, SpyKiller 2005. See below for more details on this case. As always, we urge users to stick to the short list of "trustworthy" anti-spyware products listed below or the expanded list of anti-spyware products listed HERE. [A: 8-21-05 / U: 8-21-05]

Note on SpyCleaner: SpyCleaner was originally listed on this page because of concerns with false positives. In early March 2005, a new version of SpyCleaner was released, followed by new definitions. Testing with that new version indicated that the problems with earlier versions had been satisfactorily resolved. Thus, we decided to de-list SpyCleaner from the main list of "rogue/suspecy" anti-spyware on 31 Mar. 2005. In May 2006, however, it became known to us that SpyCleaner was bundling WhenU Save, an adware application, with the free version of its application. Given that such behavior is clear grounds for listing on the "rogue/suspect" anti-spyware list, we re-listed SpyCleaner on 12 May, 2006. [A: 6-26-04 / U: 5-12-06]



De-Listed Applications: Some applications that were originally included in this list of "rogue/suspect" anti-spyware programs have been de-listed after the vendors for those programs took steps to correct the problems identified on this page. An entry for each of the applications de-listed during the past year remains in the main list above solely to point to the explanatory notes below, which detail the circumstances of the de-listing. Applications de-listed over a year ago are listed on a separate historical page.



That an application has been de-listed should not be understood as an endorsement or recommendation of any kind. We still recommend that users consult the short list of "trustworthy" anti-spyware applications. For more information on the process for de-listing application, see THIS discussion in the Spyware Warrior forums.

Not On the List: There are a number of lesser-known anti-spyware applications that we have tested but decided were not appropriate to include on the "Rogue/Suspect Anti-Spyware List" above. We used to keep a list of these "other" programs here. We called it the "not-on-the-list list," and it was essentially a list of programs that folks didn't need to email us about because we were already familiar with those apps. Unfortunately, all too many users simply ignored our blatant disclaimer that the "not-on-the-list" list was not another list of rogue/suspect products and began treating the list as a kind of black list. As a result, we were forced to withdraw the list because some irresponsible users were using it to tarnish the names of products on the list when that was never our intention. The upshot of all this is that we encourage you to email us about anti-spyware products and anti-malware products that are new and that you think might warrant investigation. If you email us about the product and we haven't seen it before, we will acknowledge your email and begin looking into the product. If, however, you email us about a product that we're already familiar with and have decided is inappropriate for the list, we may or may not respond to your email. If you don't receive a response, that's a good indication that we're already familiar with the product. Please keep in mind that the Rogue/Suspect Anti-Spyware list does not include such programs as: rogue system snoopers (e.g., key loggers, screenscrapers, etc.)

rogue system/Registry/drive cleaning applications

other types of rogue privacy & security products So, we ask that readers not email us to suggest that programs like ErrorFixer, WinFixer, Drive Cleaner, and the like be added to the Rogue/Suspect Anti-Spyware list, because such programs aren't anti-malware applications that we would consider listing here.

Old News FTC Strikes a Third Time [4 August 2005] On August 3, 2005, just five months after moving against SpywareAssassin and two months after moving against SpyKiller 2005, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission announced that it had settled a complaint against Advertising.com, the company behind SpyBlast, an "anti-spyware" product that has been listed on these pages since June 26, 2004 (the very day this list was first published). In its complaint, the FTC specifically noted that the SpyBlast program installed adware that tracked users' surfing activity without clearly and conspicuously notifying users outside of the EULA that such adware would be installed. According to the FTC:

Consumers ... were shown an Active X "security warning" installation box, with a hyperlink describing SpyBlast as "Personal Computer Security and Protection Software from unauthorized users" and telling them, "once you agree to the License Terms and Privacy policy - click YES to continue." The hyperlink did not indicate the nature and significance of the terms of the licensing agreement – namely that adware would be installed on their computers. Consumers were not required to read the agreement before installing the software. If consumers had read the agreement, they might have seen a statement saying that by accepting the software, they agreed to receive marketing messages, including pop-up ads, based on their Internet browsing habits. [...]



The complaint charges that in representing that SpyBlast is an Internet security program, the respondents did not adequately disclose that SpyBlast included adware that caused consumers to receive pop-up ads. It alleges that the presence of the bundled adware would be material to consumers deciding whether to install SpyBlast, and, therefore, that the failure to disclose it adequately was deceptive. You can read more about the FTC's action against SpyBlast and Advertising.com here: Press Release

Case Documents The FTC and Advertising.com settled on a consent order that "prohibits the respondents from making any representations about the performance, benefits, efficacy, or features of SpyBlast or any of their other programs promoted as security or privacy software, unless they clearly and conspicuously disclose that consumers who install the program will receive advertisements, if that is the case." FTC Strikes Again [26 June 2005] On June 23, 2005, just 3 months after moving against SpywareAssassin, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission announced that it had taken action against Trustsoft, the company behind SpyKiller 2005, an "anti-spyware" product that has been listed on these pages since June 26, 2004 (the very day this list was first published). In its complaint, the FTC specifically named several of the more deceptive and unfair practices that are employed by many of the "anti-spyware" applications listed on this page, namely: falsely claiming to have scanned users' PCs remotely and detected "spyware"

using high pressure sales tactics through pop-ups and spam to compel users to buy its application, SpyKiller 2005

selling an "anti-spyware" product that falsely detects "spyware" on users' PCs

selling an "anti-spyware" product that fails to remove a substantial amount of "spyware" from users' PCs You can read more about the FTC's action against SpyKiller 2005 here: Press Release

Complaint (PDF doc)

Temporary Restraining Order (PDF doc)

Stipulated Preliminary Injunction (PDF doc) The FTC secured a temporary restraining order on June 1, followed by preliminary injunction on June 14. (Please note that SpyKiller 2005 is a different product from Maxion Software's SpyKiller, which is also listed on this page.) Update (8-21-05) : Please read this note on the new Trustsoft AntiSpyware application.

Update ( 1-6-06): Trustsoft has now settled with the FTC. Rogue/Suspect List Hits 200 Apps! [9 June 2005] Almost one year after the Rogue/Suspect Anti-Spyware page at SpywareWarrior.com was launched, Spyware Warrior added the 200th application to its list of sub-standard anti-spyware applications. Credit goes to Simon Clausen of PC Tools for pointing us to the 200th rogue/suspect anti-spyware application, Winkeeper, which was added to the list on June 9, 2005. (The Rogue/Suspect page was officially launched on June 26, 2004.) A Dubious Milestone This event in itself is a dubious milestone. It does serve as painful reminder that the majority of anti-spyware applications to be found on the internet are woefully short of offering the kind of robust protection from unwanted advertising software that all too many spyware/adware victims are desperately in need of. Why So Many? We at Spyware Warrior are often asked why so many poor quality anti-spyware applications exist. The answer is a simple one: spyware and adware are afflicting millions of innocent victims, leading to an exploding market for anti-spyware tools. These victims are desperate to fix their hijacked web browsers and trashed PCs, which are overrun with unwanted toolbars and popup advertising. These users are angry, frustrated, and even scared. Unfortunately, they also have problems distinguishing between the small number of quality anti-spyware applications available from reputable vendors and the great mass of disreputable anti-spyware utilities. This combination of fear, frustration, ignorance, and desperation makes spyware and adware victims ripe to be exploited again -- this time by disreputable anti-spyware vendors, many of whom have simply rushed out poor quality applications to rake in money from a hot market and who do not shirk from using aggressive, misleading, and deceptive advertising to bamboozle scared and confused spyware and adware victims. Sadly, some of these vendors are not above installing adware and spyware themselves onto victims' PCs. Why We're Here That's what makes the 200th application such a dubious milestone -- and a troubling monument to the myriad ways that greed can exploit fear, confusion, desperation, and ignorance. And it's just this unfortunate trend that the Rogue/Suspect Anti-Spyware page has been designed to combat, by offering users good information about the whole range of anti-spyware products -- from the ever-growing number of untrustworthy tools to the small handful of quality applications that do exist. FTC Busts Rogue Anti-Spyware Vendor! [11 March 2005] On March 11, 2005 the U.S. Federal Trade Commission took action against MaxTheater, the company behind SpywareAssassin, an "anti-spyware" product that has been listed on these pages since July 4, 2004. In its complaint, the FTC specifically named several of the more deceptive and unfair practices that are employed by many of the "anti-spyware" applications listed on this page, namely:

falsely claiming to have scanned users' PCs remotely and detected "spyware"

using high pressure sales tactics through pop-ups and spam to compel users to buy its application, SpywareAssassin

selling an "anti-spyware" product that falsely detects "spyware" on users' PCs

selling an "anti-spyware" product that fails to remove a substantial amount of "spyware" from users' PCs You can read more about the FTC's action against SpywareAssassin here: Press Release

Complaint (PDF doc)

Restraining Order (PDF doc) And for a discussion of this news, see THIS thread at DSLReports.com and THIS blog entry here at Spyware Warrior . Update ( 1-6-06): MaxTheater has now settled with the FTC.

Rogue/Suspect Anti-Spyware Sites



As the problems with spyware and adware have exploded over the past few years, a number of web sites have sprung up to provide information and even to recommend anti-spyware programs. All too many of these sites are not trustworthy as guides to spyware solutions. Especially bad are the many anti-spyware "review" sites that purport to provide "objective" reviews of anti-spyware programs. The problem with these "review" sites is that many of them push "rogue/suspect" anti-spyware applications. Indeed, many of these sites are affiliates for the very products they "review" and recommend. Most of these sites advertise heavily on Google. (For a list of reputable, quality anti-spyware information sites, see below.)



Name Domains Comments