When I talk with computer security experts about how to prevent various threats to their systems (data-mining, aggressive advertising, parasites, scumware, selected traditional Trolans, dialers, malware, browser hijackers and tracking components), the Ad-Aware serious of programs is always mentioned. The program works and it works well.
I've used this product many times after a system is reported as slow or crashing often. It's a great way to disinfect a system and ensure it is clean from virtually all scumware threats. Personally, I use it on combination with Microsoft Windows Defender, which is free, as the two products highly overlap in functionality.
Ad-Aware has automatic features to scan your system at pre-determined intervals and to prevent scumware infections in the first place.
This program is an essential part of any home user's security arsenal.
Unless otherwise noted, all photos and text is Copyright © Richard G Lowe, Jr.