How to Remove Search for Spyware
- 1). Remove the “Search for Spyware” virus using the Malicious Software Removal Tool. This tool comes pre-installed on computers running any Microsoft operating system post-Windows 2000. The user launches the program by typing the code “MRT” (no quotes) into the Start menu’s Run dialogue and then hitting "Enter." Though “Quick Scan” is the default selection, the “Full Scan” performs a more thorough search to fully remove any viruses. Note that though there should be no need to download anything, the Microsoft website offers a free backup of the tool. (You can find a link in Resources.)
- 2). Remove the “Search for Spyware” virus using the Windows Live OneCare Safety Scanner. This scanner requires no software, but runs straight from the Microsoft website. The tool searches the hard drive to find and remove the “Search for Spyware” virus. Microsoft recommends running the scan with Internet Explorer, but the OneCare site offers a plugin for Firefox users. Anyone performing this scan may wish to close other applications before beginning to ensure it does not miss something.
- 3). Remove the “Search for Spyware” virus using third-party software. These paid programs generally offer better protection than Microsoft’s tools. Symantec, AVG and McAfee are popular choices (see links in Resources), but there are others. The software will scan the entire hard drive for trojans, viruses and other bugs. Even after the virus causing the “Search for Spyware” pop-ups has been removed, these programs will run in the background to protect the hard drive from further attack.
