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Trend Micro HijackThis logo

Trend Micro HijackThis

By Trend Micro Free Editors' Rating

Editors' Review

Download.com Staff Nov 9, 2008

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.

Full Specifications

What's new in version 2.0.5 beta

  • Fixed "No internet connection available" when pressing the button Analyze This
  • Fixed the link of update website, now send you to sourceforge.net projects
  • Fixed left-right scrollbar when in safe mode or low screen resolution

General

Release July 21, 2014
Date Added July 21, 2014
Version 2.0.5 beta

Operating Systems

Operating Systems Windows 2000, Windows Vista, Windows 98, Windows Me, Windows, Windows 7, Windows XP
Additional Requirements None

Popularity

Total Downloads 12,719,428
Downloads Last Week 63
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User Reviews

4.2/5
713 User Votes
5 Star
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Developer's Description

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.

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