Has anyone tried the MS Beta as of yet? http:

[robdam]

Has anyone tried the MS Beta as of yet?

http://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/spyware/software/default.mspx

[liquidblaze]

yeah tried it a long time ago. its been out for at least a month or so.

[newst]

I don't know about anyone else, but the data on my tablet is too vital (to me if no one else) for me to be a beta tester for someone's anti-virus or anti-spyware software.

As long as Microsoft has me downloading critical patches to their operating system on a monthly basis I'll turn to other sources for my malware protection.

[KenMagel]

I've been satisfied with SpyCatcher thus far.

[motion1]

spy catcher has worked fine for me...runs in background and has not caused ANY problems. For me to admit MS did something else right is hard but.........

[DaveTN]

I stick by my combination of MS Antispyware and Spybot Search and Destroy. Every once in a while I'll run Lavasofts Adaware Pro. MS antispyware has not caused any problems for me. I have installed it on all of my computers (9) and several of my Computer Business customers (20+ so far out of about 200) and all are happy.

David

[robdam]

quote:Originally posted by DaveTN

I stick by my combination of MS Antispyware and Spybot Search and Destroy. Every once in a while I'll run Lavasofts Adaware Pro. MS antispyware has not caused any problems for me. I have installed it on all of my computers (9) and several of my Computer Business customers (20+ so far out of about 200) and all are happy.

David


Dave: Wheezed to meet you?[rofl]

[robdam]

Is anyone familiar with using a "hosts File" to block Spyware?


http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.htm

[robdam]

quote:Originally posted by liquidblaze

yeah tried it a long time ago. its been out for at least a month or so.


Did you like it? How well or poorly did it perform for you? Are you still using it? If not, why not and what are you using now?

[robdam]

quote:Originally posted by newst

I don't know about anyone else, but the data on my tablet is too vital (to me if no one else) for me to be a beta tester for someone's anti-virus or anti-spyware software.

As long as Microsoft has me downloading critical patches to their operating system on a monthly basis I'll turn to other sources for my malware protection.



I'm not referring or suggesting putting any beta SW, (although I did use SP2 Beta), on your tablet. I'm just asking in general. Thanks.

[bmhome1]

Actually MS just bought out the highest rated in reviews (Ars Technica)Anti spyware company Giant and re-released that as a "beta." Hardly beta, and works flawlessly for me.

[Jim Artis]

Oh well, I'm using a different program. It was known as Spyware Eliminator. It cleans and protects. I presented it in my Useful Utilities Thread. If interested, visit the Aluria Web Site (http://www.aluriasoftware.com/homeproducts/spyware/). The current package is now titled Aluria Software Security Center. The new name because it will incorporate Anti-Virus and Anti-Spam protection. Not only do I use it on my PCs. I also sell it to my customers. I have not had a customer come back because of continued problems with Spyware and Adware. Here is a screen shot.

http://www.tabletpcbuzz.com/forum/uploaded/jim artis/2005227181049_SNAG-0002.gif

Here is a link to an earlier thread on Microsoft's Package:
http://www.tabletpcbuzz.com/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=22258&SearchTerms=spyware It also contains a link to a Jan 06, 2005 thread on the Microsoft product.

[Wcrocker]

I'm also running the Microsoft (Giant) Spyware beta and also use Spybot as well as Adaware every now and then. I've run into no problems with any of them individually or collectively. In addition I've got Norton Internet Security running with some selective add blocking on that as well.

[liquidblaze]

robdam,

i've used the hosts file to block certain ad networks from annoying me.

I only used the ms tool for a day, just a few test runs. it found nothing. just like any other application.

I dont have anything running in the background that keeps me from being infected, all I do is make sure I dont click on sites with questionable content and make sure that I use the right browser (firefox that is).

agnitum outpost ensures that no one bothers me as far as scanning etc is concerned.

no problems in 4 years - so I guess this method works.

[minimage]

For my users, usually AdAware and SpyBot. Sometimes HijackThis. If those don't kill it, MS and the hosts file (on one user, though, the hosts file resulted in lots of blank popups). McAfee Enterprise tends to do a bit of cleanup, too.

For me, Firefox and caution, and darned if that doesn't work great! Ok, some of it's luck, too, but I've been using the net since 1993, and I've had 2 cases of spyware (I'm ashamed to admit one case was on my TPC, which I've had since May 2004).

One Microsoft MVP highly recommends SpywareBlaster.

EDIT: I think I just realized one of the reasons why I've been so "lucky." I have this friend who hates Microsoft with a passion. Until Baldur's Gate came out, he refused to use Windows, except what he had to endure to support his clients. Because of his indoctrination, I'd always used Netscape, until I moved to Opera a couple of years ago.

[bmhome1]

With TIP support spotty in Firebox 1.0 and disabled in 1.0.1 and non-working TIP in Opera, I'm forced with using IE when in tablet mode.

If active-x is set limited in options, Messenger disabled, security settings on high, site-blocking enabled, firewall and script blocking set; is IE still bad security-wise? What safe browser options are there for tablet users?

[Trev]

The MS spyware broke something on my tablet. I can't remember what it was I just remember having to system restore to get everything back in order.

[sumocat]

My security consists of the MS Anti-Spyware, Spybot, Lavasoft Ad-Aware, SpywareBlaster, AVG anti-virus, ZoneAlarm, and Windows Firewall. I also do occasional checks with HijackThis and avoid using IE. I use wireless Internet and hotspots, so I need to stay on my toes. Remember, it's not paranoia if they're really out to get you.

[kilar]

I use spybot for spyware, AVG for antivirus, and ZoneAlarm for firewall. I avoid Internet Exploder at all times. The last time I used IE on my kids' computer (I had to use IE for Windows updates) something happened the last time I was using that caused the computer to not boot up anymore. BTW, the kids are getting an Apple-Mini to replace that old Windows XP machine. I am not a big trash talker against Microsoft, but I blame IE for that computer not being able to boot up.

[Chrissss]

I run all the usual suspects...AVG 7 Free, Spybot S & D, AdAware. I've DL'd Microsoft/Giant Anti-spyware but haven't installed just yet. Since so many of you report no issues on your TPC's I'll load it in now.

Between all these and the hardware firewall of a router I haven't had a nasty appear in many months on any of my systems.

Of course, it could be an 'ignorance is bliss' situation... :)

Chris...


Chris...

[Jim Artis]

This is posted so other reader may share in a dialog between robdam and myself today regarding how I deal with spyware/adware in my business. Rob agreed to the posting of our dialog. Certainly, others do it differently. I am posting so you may add your views. Through that, hopefully, we can arrive at the best solution for all of our readers. I’ll do this in a dialog format. Roddam is asking and I am responding. Here goes…

RODDAM:
Hey Jim. I hope all is well? Wasn't sure my question to you would be appropriate for the public, hence this email. What do you do, if anything, to guarantee your work against viruses or spyware/popups? I mean, it would be pretty difficult to GUARANTEE to a client that even with appropriate measures in place - Ad Aware, Spy Doctor, etc - that they are safe from spyware/popups. I need your advice and guidance so I can be prepared! Thanks!

ARTIS:
Hi Rob, All is well. Customers come to me with spyware/adware problems. My work is warranted. I bill a one-hour charge ($75.00 plus the costs of Spyware Eliminator--$29.95, plus sales tax [7%]). From my perspective, I am giving a guarantee that they will no longer have the problem. I have not had customers come back complaining about spyware/adware. I conclude my process works.

I do the following:
1) use msconfig to turn off everything that loads at start-up
2) use add/remove programs to remove applications the I know are related to spyware.
3) empty c:\temp & c:\windows\temp
4) empty cookies & clean Internet history
5) empty the recycle bin
6) install spyware eliminator (when I comment on it on the Buzz, I the only one)
7) scan and remove spyware/adware until there is none
8) set the apps' protection to prevent the computer from becoming contaminated

By doing steps 2 - 4, I minimize the number of spyware/adware found. I do not need large numbers. One can allow their software of choice find and remove everything

The steps I have listed are for the much hated IE.
I use Spyware Eliminator on systems in my systems so that I am totally aware of is behavior. I do not have problems on the system where installed.

On stubborn computers, I may do a clean install or I may have the use a browser that has a pop-up blocker. MSN Search [new] has an effective pop-up blocker. i hope this helps.

I only know what work for me. I have worked on over 20 systems. They are not fun and can take many (5+) hours.

RODDAM:
Great info, thanks. Does turning msconfig off affect anything else? Does that prevent ALL applications from loading/running upon startup? How does one turn msconfig off? Thanks again.

ARTIS:
One does not turn msconfig on/off. msconfig is the System Configuration Utility that allows the user to make "system" setting as it relates to start-up ini files. In addition, you can control what loads at start-up. Please open it and explore. Start>Run>msconfig.

RODDAM:
WOW! That is AWESOME! I never knew about that. So if I did have spyware that loads all the time at startup - let's say that I could not remove it, I would unselect it in the STARTUP tab of msconfig, then restart, then attempt to remove again?
ARTIS:
Yes, depending what you are defining as spyware. Let's say it’s a search bar, etc. I generally uninstall apps in the safe mode. I turn everything off that loads at startup, uninstall, the use my spyware utility.

RODDAM:
why uninstall in safe mode?

ARTIS:
The O/S is more stable in the safe-mode because not all services and drivers are loaded. I have had case sever enough that I cannot get to the desktop in the normal mode. Doing so is what I have learned works for me. In addition, several Microsoft Article instructs one to startup in the safe mode to resolve certain O/S issues.

May we publish all this [on the Buzz] so that others with the same questions may see the responses and those who may what that expand on my comments or offer a different approach may do so?

RODDAM:
ABSOLUTELY. I just wasn't sure if you wanted to share your rate of pay, etc. That's why I went email. Fire away Jim!

ARTIS:
Thanks, I'll do a dialog between us. Do you want me to use your name?

RODDAM:
feel free.

[i]Well Rob, did I capture our dialog correctly?

[robdam]

"8) set the apps' protection to prevent the computer from becoming contaminated"


What apps? Spyare eliminator? Other?

(Great job Jim , thanks so much again for your advice, greatly appreciated)

[Jim Artis]

Indeed!

http://www.tabletpcbuzz.com/forum/uploaded/jim artis/200531182355_SNAG-0000.gif

[DaveTN]

Jim and all others,

I forgot to mention one other toll that I use. I encourage my customers to at least use the free Zonealarm firewall, and encourage them to purchase the Pro version.

For those of you wondering, why my Sig Line mentions that I am a Respiratory Therapist, yet I talk about "my customers". I have run a small computer repair business called "The Computer Repair Wizard" since 1997. In my day job I am a Respiratory Therapist, in all my time off, I'm running the computer business.

David

[Jim Artis]

David is out of the closet! [thumbsup]

[robdam]

Jim, any custom settings for Spyware Eliminator or just use your settings as displyed in your embedded picture?

[Jim Artis]

Good Morning Rob,

I select custom and ensure each item listed is blocked. I have not explored whether default blocks everything. As I block all, I have had no difficulty "surfing the net."

Just a footnote. Spyware Eliminator in conjunction wit MSN Search Popup Blocker [I think it can be a blocker form and browser. I liked both Firefox and Avant's blocking], I have 99.9% of popup blocked. My subsequent scans with Spyware Eliminator finds a few cookies, no spyware. Also, this package has roll-back capability should you need to restore anything that you deleted using Spyware Eliminator. Remember, you still need anti virus protection. The Aluria Security Center will have that as an added feature soon.

[robdam]

quote:Originally posted by Jim Artis

Good Morning Rob,

I select custom and ensure each item listed is blocked. I have not explored whether default blocks everything. As I block all, I have had no difficulty "surfing the net."

Just a footnote. Spyware Eliminator in conjunction wit MSN Search Popup Blocker [I think it can be a blocker form and browser. I liked both Firefox and Avant's blocking], I have 99.9% of popup blocked. My subsequent scans with Spyware Eliminator finds a few cookies, no spyware. Also, this package has roll-back capability should you need to restore anything that you deleted using Spyware Eliminator. Remember, you still need anti virus protection. The Aluria Security Center will have that as an added feature soon.


Does S.E. have the ability to stop Spyware from installing BEFORE it actually happens? (like a Real Time/Live prevention?) If so, what happens? Will a window pop-up and say "such and such was prevented from installing? OR will you have the option to allow the install to occur? I'm wondering how much end user interaction will be required.

[Jim Artis]

Not to my knowledge. That is what prevention is all about. Kind of like when we are inoculated against a virus, we do not get the disease. And, like us humans, not user interaction to stopped what is blocked, as long as your definitions are current. Of course, if you have continuous Internet, the software will keep itself updated. Set it to scan at a scheduled time, then you only have to determine how the items found are to be disposed of. In the future a more automatic process will be incorporated, stay tuned. Your computer is protected as us humans are when we get our shots.

After you have used it for a while, you'll have to give us you opinion of the software. As you know Aluria gives a 30-day free trial period.

[robdam]

I do have the trial installed and am impressed so far. S.E. found 7 instances of Spyware that Ad-Aware SE and Spy Doctor missed. I can't seem to find where I can select auto deletion of suspected Spyware?

[Jim Artis]

Oops Rob,

Shucks! Too many software packages. Rob you did not find the automatic removal of found spyware because it is not there. I'll go back and edit for clarity.

I just got of the phone with my Aluria Reseller Account Representative. Such a feature will be coming in future updates. I won't describe how it will work. I'll just say the package will continue to improve. BTW, my rep is great. He accepts my calls and has always provided the best of support. I can even speak with him on technical matters.

Sorry for the misstatement.

Thanks for pointing it out.

[robdam]

So manual intervention is required? Hmmm, not sure I like that for the non-technical types, you know? Jim, do you instruct your clients on how to remove any found items?

[Jim Artis]

Yes I do. Select all and press the delete key or select the remove button. Again, as you are evaluating, the automatic feature may become available. I'll advise as soon as I know.

[Emmadw]

I've got MS AntiSpyware on 1 PC (which has XP on it). I've found however, that it does get a few false positives - especially if you have IE Spyad on there. (IE Spyad works by adding a great many dodgy sites to the Restricted Sites list in the registry. MS AntiSpyware then picks up those refs in the Registry - but doesn't take note of where they are)

One of the other things that I don't like about MS AntiSpyware is that while it alerts you to the fact that something wants to run at start up - it automatically allows things that it defines to be safe. I've also got Spybot's TeaTimer running, and that gives you the option (though unlike MS doesn't say if something is safe or not). I'd like a combo of the two - as there are some things that MS defines as safe, but I don't want running all the time - as they are resource hogs.

I've also got Spyware blaster, (prevents spyware being installed), Spybot and Adaware - to clear up afterwards, Sygate (and a hardware firewall in the router), use Firefox when I can, have disabled HTML preview in Thunderbird - and generally am careful about what I do.