Free Spyware Utilities you don't have to purchase
adaware download personal edition & enable all protections (update often for more security)
blacklight download and works great to find sneaky files and more important memory resident files (rename error files)
cw shredder from Micro Trend free utility removes Cool Search and other nasty spyware
ewido very comprehensive spyware checker, will also find viruses and clean them (highly recommend)
highjack this use this utility with care as it works with registry
Netscape 8 download browser which has a strong spyware catcher- noticed it removed files others missed!
spybolt download offers multi tools and security settings (teatime memory resident).
spyblaster offers protection against browser hijackers and other protections
spyware guide run this program because it will remove spyware programs others miss
*Editors note - normally I won't endorse any product but I know many people have experienced their computers either hijacked or have rogue programs in their computers, trapping of ram resources and other unusual behaviors. I have used for well over a year Spydoctor to remove them with great success. One factor I tell clients is I don't keep it in active mode because it can use ram, so I rather check weekly with new updatesand scan.
Please pay attention that other spyware programs can mess up your registry, so be careful with any program you use by making proper backups!!
Please notify me of any other programs that don't require an immediate purchase or are only scanners
Free Registry Repair Utility (new)
RegScrubXP
cleans junk out Windows 2000/XP system