SpywareBlaster 3.5.1

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 and Mozilla/Firefox, 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.

Despite the multiple tabs and variety of options, this utility maintains focus on its sole task: keeping ActiveX-based spyware from hijacking Internet Explorer and Mozilla. Wrapped in a no-frills yet good-looking tabbed interface, SpywareBlaster is easy to both navigate and operate. Additional features include the ability to disable Flash animations, create a block list of troublesome DLLs, take a snapshot of your system, and add customized ActiveX blockers for files not included in the program's database. Like most adware-removal programs, it lets you download the latest malware updates. We would have liked support for other popular browsers, such as Opera, and the program offers little help for PCs already infected with adware. Still, SpywareBlaster proves a helpful preventative addition to any antiadware arsenal.