Hi Jugalug,
You are correct in that I really cannot tell you which to use, but I will provide links for you.
To help protect your computer in the future I recommend that you get the following free programs if you do not already have them:
McAfee Site Advisor--free version. The folks there check out websites and based on their findings, rate it as Safe, Unknown, Caution, or Bad.
SpywareBlaster 3.5.1 to help prevent spyware from installing in the first place. Install & update SpywareBlaster with the latest definitions. After you have updated, click the button -
enable protection for all unprotected items.- It will block any bad ActiveX from running in Internet Explorer and Firefox if it's listed in their database (which you should update frequently). To view their database and list of restricted sites, launch the program and click on each of the tabs on the main display page.
IESpyAD Zoned Out to block access to malicious websites so you cannot be redirected to them from an infected site or email. This severely impairs attempts to infect your system as it basically prevents any downloads (Cookies etc) from the sites listed, although you will still be able to connect to the sites.
Update, and scan with your onboard Anti Malware and Anti Virus programs regularly. Without regular updates you
will not be protected when new malicious programs are released.
In light of your recent issue, I'm sure you'd like to avoid any future infections. Please take a look at these well written articles:
PC Safety and Security--What Do I Need?
HOW DID I GET INFECTED IN THE FIRST PLACE? by Tony Klein
MAKING INTERNET EXPLORER SAFER
Understanding and Using Firewalls
http://miekiemoes.blogspot.com/search/label/Prevention
**Be very wary with any security software that is advertised in popups or in other ways. They are not only usually of no use, but often have malware in them.
I'll keep an eye out for your Vista thread.
