CNET Editors' review
If persistent spyware is bogging down your computer, you might need HijackThis. The tiny program examines vulnerable or suspect parts of your system, such as browser helper objects and certain types of Registry keys. Pressing the Scan button generates a log of dozens of items, most of which are just customizations. Don't check off an item and hit the Fix Checked button unless you're sure it's malware. Clicking Info on Selected Item tells you why the entry was flagged as suspicious, but not whether it's actually malware. To find that out, search the Web for that item's name or go straight to a forum, such as SpywareInfo or Computer Cops. Saving the log creates a text document you can post to these forums.
The latest version adds powerful tools to the Config window. The process manager and hosts file editor help you excise virulent infections. The unique ADS Spy tool scans for alternate data streams, which some browser hijackers use to hide from spyware removers. The program still installs into whatever directory in which you unzip the file, which can make it hard to locate. HijackThis is a serious tool for any user who needs to root out a serious infestation, but wield it with caution.
Watch the CNET video review of Trend Micro HijackThis:
Publisher's Description
From Trend Micro:
HijackThis lists the contents of key areas of the Registry and hard drive--areas that are used by both legitimate programmers and hijackers. The program is continually updated to detect and remove new hijacks. It does not target specific programs and URLs, only the methods used by hijackers to force you onto their sites.
As a result, false positives are imminent, and unless you're sure about what you're doing, you always should consult with knowledgeable folks before deleting anything.
More Popular Anti-Spyware downloads
- Malwarebytes Anti-Malware
452,143 downloads
- Ad-Aware Free Antivirus +
140,523 downloads
- Spybot - Search & Destroy
28,614 downloads
- SpywareBlaster
13,249 downloads
- SuperAntiSpyware Free Edition
13,161 downloads
-
All versions:
4.2 starsout of 710 votes
-
Current version:
4.0 starsout of 24 votes
-
My rating:
Write review
-
"I've got the Logfile who do I send file to & how?"
Version: Trend Micro HijackThis 2.0.5 beta
Pros
Sounds great if only I can find out how to use it.
Cons
No cons as yet.
Summary
This is not really a review, I'll write one later:- I am completely computer illiterate. Have given five stars as it would not be fair to give any less until I can find out how to use it.
-
"Easy to Use."
Version: Trend Micro HijackThis 2.0.5 beta
Pros
Does what it says.
Cons
None that I can think of
-
"Best admin tool if you know what you are up to"
Version: Trend Micro HijackThis 2.0.5 beta
Pros
Best admin freeware tool. Lets you know what's going on in your system. Detects it all. Just you must know what you're doing when you're using it.
Cons
Not much from admin point of view. But if it is for end users, it can have more organized display and more security, warnings and easy restore facility when you're applying changes.
-
"WARNING! PC crashed ... Malware Alert!"
Version: Trend Micro HijackThis 2.0.5 beta
Pros
Nothing nice to say about this! This malware caused my PC to crash and unable to boot up.
Cons
This software (malware - IMO) caused by computer to CRASH right after installing it! Worse thing is, it does NOT even have an UNinstaller! What crap! My computer couldn't even boot up after installing this malware!
I have been having a lot trouble booting up my PC ever since I installed this malware! Even System Restore couldn't even fix this situation! Talk about malware alright! This product claims to seek out malware, but IMO, itself is malware!Summary
I'm appalled that I found this product through Google!
-
"Always useful"
Version: Trend Micro HijackThis 2.0.5 beta
Pros
Have used this a long time. easy to see unwanted problems, such as hidden BHOs
Cons
noe found so far
Summary
As an additional check of what's installed, it's very good.
-
"Very useful program to clean out the junk in startup."
Version: Trend Micro HijackThis 2.0.5 beta
Pros
Powerful, useful, identifies what is starting and what menus are impacted by programs.
Cons
You have to know what you are doing!
-
"Excellent free program"
Version: Trend Micro HijackThis 2.0.5 beta
Pros
It works with internet explorer to detect BHO.
Cons
Not for the novice or faint of heart.
-
"IT WORKS, THE END"
Version: Trend Micro HijackThis 2.0.5 beta
Pros
IT WORKS GREAT
Cons
IT DOESN'T SUCK
-
"I depend on hijackthis to keep my computer clean."
Version: Trend Micro HijackThis 2.0.5 beta
Pros
hijackthis is great, I hope it always stays available.
Cons
I wish them the best.
Summary
I would hate to have to do without hijackthis.
-
"I had hijack this on my other computer, Loved it."
Version: Trend Micro HijackThis 2.0.5 beta
Pros
Well I don't know what to say but it's the best I've ever seen used. I had my Browser hijacked once and used it onit and bam, It was out of there.
Cons
Don't know of any.
Summary
What can I say, Try it you'll love it too.
Add Your Review
Submit your reply
E-mail this review
Report offensive content
See more CNET content tagged:
Previous Versions:
