Microsoft Purchases GIANT AntiSpyware

On December 16, 2004, the Microsoft Corporation bought GIANT AntiSpyware, with the intent of providing a version of it bundled with Windows this month (January 2005). This was an astute purchase that bodes well for security of Windows users. GIANT AntiSpyware is rivaled only by Webroot Spy Sweeper in its ability to detect the most dangerous (hardcore) forms of spyware such as keyloggers, trackers, and remote terminals. It also has an unusually clear and easy-to-use interface that is compatible with Microsoft styles. Unfortunately, the purchase also means that GIANT AntiSpyware is at present (Jan 2005) no longer available as a download or for purchase. Please see the GIANT site at http://www.giantcompany.com/ for more information.

In the meantime, try downloading the Spyware Removal Kit on this web site. It will provide you with a suite of tools that can remove spyware more effectively than any one tool. As of early 2005 there is no one spyware checker that can find all dangerous forms of spyware. This means that unlike viruses, it necessary to use multiple tools, repeated scans, and (especially) deinstall/reinstall cycles to obtain reasonable levels of security.