SpywareBlaster 2.5.3

• Quick specs
• Price: Free
• Operating system: Windows 95/98/Me/2000/XP/NT
• Date added: April 12, 2003
• Total Downloads: 17,489,967
• Downloads last week: 39,765
• See full specifications

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A newer version of SpywareBlaster is available.

Download the latest version | Learn more about SpywareBlaster 4.2

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CNET editors' review

Reviewed by: Seth Rosenblatt on December 05, 2008

SpywareBlaster started out as a malicious software blocker focused on ActiveX-based attacks. It has kept that component and expanded, and now can block all kinds of spyware that gets delivered through your Web browser, although its defenses are most useful for Internet Explorer users.

The dedicated IE tools are useful. Users can block all Flash content, create encrypted backups of the Hosts file, manage browser page settings, block cookies, and create customized ActiveX blocks. Firefox and Netscape-specific protection only offers cookie blocking, but you can create a customized blacklist that will function across multiple browsers. Users can also create a system snapshot for PC recovery in case of a devastating attack. The interface is designed well, uncluttered and easy to navigate. For $10 a year users can get automatic definition file updates and tech support, otherwise those must be done manually.

It's a little surprising that there's no support for Opera, and there's a noticeable lack of spyware removal capabilities. Although we appreciate the good job that SpywareBlaster has done in the past, this current version doesn't hold up very well against other security products that prevent attacks and remove infections.

Publisher's description

SpywareBlaster doesn't scan and clean for spyware - it prevents it from ever being installed. SpywareBlaster blocks the installation of spyware ActiveX controls (such as Lop.com and Xupiter) in its database, and can even prevent them from running if they are installed. The built-in Check for Updates feature allows quick and easy database updates (released frequently). Information on all spyware covered in the database is also provided. SpywareBlaster does not need to be running in the background - simple select the items you wish to be protected against (or select all items), press the Protect button, and protection is enabled. The newest version can also block spyware/tracking cookies, and includes a System Snapshot feature which allows you to take a snapshot of your computer in its clean state and later revert many changes made by spyware and browser hijackers.

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