Technical Support - AntiVirus / AntiMalware
Virsu; Trojan Horses; Spyware; Malware are all problems that are growing from our internet connected lifestyles.

Viruses are defined as:
A dangerous computer program with the characteristic feature of being able to generate copies of itself, and thereby spreading. Additionally most computer viruses have a destructive payload that is activated under certain conditions.

Spyware is defiended as:
Any software that covertly gathers user information through the user's Internet connection without his or her knowledge, usually for advertising purposes. Spyware applications are typically bundled as a hidden component of freeware or shareware programs that can be downloaded from the Internet. Once installed, the spyware monitors user activity on the Internet and transmits that information in the background to someone else.

Malware are defined as:
Malware is software designed to infiltrate or damage a computer system without the owner's informed consent. It is a portmanteau of the words "malicious" and "software". The expression is a general term used by computer professionals to mean a variety of forms of hostile, intrusive, or annoying software or program code.

At the end of the day however its all very annoying stuff and although you can avoid 90% of it by browsing the internet in a safe mannor some sort of protection is recommend for the average user.

Programs and Removal Tools that we use instore and recommend are:

Standard Tools
AVG Antivirus Free Edition - Free for home personal Use
AVG Anti-Spyware 30 Day Trial Edition - Continues to operate after 30 days however in a reduced features mode
Spybot Search and Destroy

Advanced Tools
Hijack This

There are many paid for versions of anti-spyare/malware products; but do some research before purchaseing any of them. Unfortunatly a majority of "Spyware Removal" programs are in fact spyware themselves and end up clogging up your computer further.

There is no simple quick fix; and a lot of the time the damage may have already been done and the only course of action to preform is a backup, format and re-install of your computer.