HOWTO: Clean a Spyware Infection

This page is written for Windows XP and Windows Vista users. The software used in this page is either a free download or freely available on a CD from the Helpdesk.

1. Install McAfee VirusScan (available on the PC Resource CD) and SpyBot Search & Destroy. 
   1. Make sure you uninstall any virus software that is already on your computer before installing McAfee.
2. Once installed, update both programs.
   1. McAfee should display a shield with a red V in the system tray (next to the clock). Right-click on this and choose Update Now.
   2. SpyBot has an update button when you run the program.
3. To increase the speed of the scans, you should clear your web browser cache.
   1. Internet Explorer
      1. Choose Internet Options from the Tools menu.
      2. Click Settings next to Browsing History.
      3. Set Disk space to use to 8 MB and click OK.
      4. Click the Delete button next to the Settings button.
      5. In the new window, select Delete All.
      6. In the next window, check Delete Browsing History and click OK.
      7. When the progress bar finishes, click OK.
   2. Mozilla Firefox
      1. Select Options from the Tools menu.
      2. Click on Advanced at the top and then choose the Network tab.
      3. Click Clear Now and enter 2 MB in the box, then click OK.
4. Restart your computer into Safe Mode.
   1. Once the initial BIOS screen (might be a splash screen for your PC's manufacturer) goes away, start tapping the F8 key.
   2. When you see the menu, choose Safe Mode using the keyboard and hit Enter.
   3. If your computer starts Windows before you see a menu, you must try again.
5. Run SpyBot and run a scan.
   1. When it finishes, remove all entries.
6. Run McAfee from the Start Menu.
   1. Choose All Programs, then McAfee, then On Demand Scan.
   2. Click Start. McAfee deletes anything it finds.
7. Restart your computer and it should be clean.