Win XP Pro SP2 spyware issues

[wxrkny]

I have two computers one is an old dell 1.3Ghz running Windows XP Pro since the final beta came out. I have not put a service pack or any Micro$oft updates on it since the OS has been installed and it has run smoothly for several years now. There is no firewall or Anti-virus software and it is connected to an always on cable modem.

The other computer is a fairly new custom built computer P42.8Ghz that I recently put Windows XP Pro with SP2 and all current updates. The firewall is disabled and there is no Anti-virus software installed. I previously had Win 2k Pro SP4 installed and had no problems except some minor compatability issues with certain games(thats why I upgraded). On this computer I constantly am seeing spyware in my registry. After browsing the internet I check my "RUN" folder in my registry and see several spyware programs. Why is this computer having so many problems while the other one has been fine for years?

Thanks in advance for your help.

 

[fuzzynavel]

probably depends on what the computers are used for.....

It also depends what the spyware is....are they things like weather programs...IE toolbars etc or something lese??

If you have SP2 setup correctly then you have some control over what is allowed to access your computer.....try turning off active X controls and java applets....then browse again and see if they pop up....

otherwise try and stay off the porn sites!!!!

 

[daveybrat]

otherwise try and stay off the porn sites!!!!

lol, i agree!

I've had SP1 and now SP2 for windows xp on both my machines and i have never had any spyware on either machine in my lifetime. I even run adaware once a month just to check, and it only finds cookies

People who get spyware are doing one of the following:

1) Porn sites
2) Music sharing programs
3) Downloading free apps
4) Visiting 'joke' websites

I don't do any of the above and i've been fine. It has to be where you are surfing.

Also it's highly recommended that you either use a router or turn the firewall back on. Also you do need some kind of antivirus.

good luck

 

[callmesteve]

#1 - Firefox > IE
#2 - Microsoft Anti Spyware... or purchase Giant

Problem solved