CNET Editors' review
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.
Watch the CNET video review of SpywareBlaster:
Publisher's Description
From BrightFort:
SpywareBlaster doesn't scan for and clean spyware--it prevents it from being installed in the first place. SpywareBlaster prevents the installation of ActiveX-based spyware, adware, dialers, browser hijackers, and other potentially unwanted programs. It can also block spyware/tracking cookies in IE, Mozilla Firefox, Netscape, and many other browsers, and restrict the actions of spyware/ad/tracking sites. With the built-in Check for Updates feature, you can help ensure your protection is up-to-date. SpywareBlaster also includes a System Snapshot feature, which lets you take a snapshot of your computer in its clean state and later revert, undoing many changes made by spyware and browser hijackers.
What's new in this version: Version 4.6 prevent the installation of Spyware, Malware, Adware, and Hijackers.
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All versions:
4.2 starsout of 1,382 votes
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Current version:
4.5 starsout of 23 votes
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My rating:
Write review
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"Recommended by Computer Active, my favorite PC magazine"
Version: SpywareBlaster 4.6
Pros
Once installed you can leave it to do it's work. It does not clash with existing spyware in your anti-virus program. Stops diallers and prevents cookies from untrusted sites installing.
Cons
Nothing comes to mind
Summary
Very good program to compliment existing security software.
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"Appears to do the job"
Version: SpywareBlaster 4.6
Pros
Easy to use & update when I remember
Cons
I am never sure if it is running and if it is running, is it an application, a process or what. I can never find any evidence it is there ... so is it actually a good spoof !
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"Install it and ck for updates once a week"
Version: SpywareBlaster 4.6
Pros
Install it and it does the rest.
Cons
Can think of none
Summary
Have used it for many years. I am sure it has stopped many infections. I have had no problems with my computer, so I figure it is doing it's job
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"Free security is a good thing."
Version: SpywareBlaster 4.6
Pros
Takes no resource. Just update. Wish everything worked so easy.
Cons
None. Get it now
Summary
I like it!
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"I Think it's the Best"
Version: SpywareBlaster 4.6
Pros
I installed Blaster several years ago, and when I use my spyware scanner the amount of spyware in a month was reduced from 10 - 30 to less than five. That still holds today.
Cons
It doesn't scan.
Summary
Spywareblaster has been the single best protection for me over the last 10 years.
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"Set it and forget it"
Version: SpywareBlaster 4.6
Pros
Very easy to understand for those who do not want to lose time to find out the complexity of softwares.
Cons
It's already 5 years that use this software and I never had a single problem; it's even workin on my first laptop running Win.ME.
Summary
Easy to use, very friendly interface, low memory usage.
I also recommend this software to the users who look for the peace of mind. -
"Free and works well."
Version: SpywareBlaster 4.6
Pros
Free and works well!
Cons
Their are no cons.
Summary
A great free spyware defender!
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"Good Additional Layer Of Protection"
Version: SpywareBlaster 4.6
Pros
Attractive interface and easy set-up. Primarily a "blocking program" (as opposed to a "cleaner") so user interaction can be a simple set-and-forget, except for the occasional updates, with room for advanced-user tweaking.
Cons
Too bad it doesn't support Opera, which could benefit from a program of this type.
Summary
I've used Spyware Blaster on and off for a couple of years now and it seems to be effective. I uninstalled it for a time when I wasn't using IE at all, but since updating from IE8 to IE9 I find myself using Internet Explorer a bit more often. (although it has Active-X blocking built in.) If you're using IE8 or lower, this would be a good program to have, and - like they say- you can't have too many anti-spyware programs.
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"Great Preventive Maintenance"
Version: SpywareBlaster 4.6
Pros
Installed it a couple years ago and update it weekly. Have never experienced a malware nightmare on my three computers. It's not the answer-all, but a steady diet of updates along with your scanware should keep your system clean in the first place.
Cons
None for this free version
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"Seems fine"
Version: SpywareBlaster 4.6
Pros
Seems to prevent malware
Cons
No reports on malware prevented
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