Ad-Aware is a free program used to remove adware, spyware, data-mining software and advertising from your PC. The program scans the hard drive, removable media, registry and RAM to detect and remove malicious software.
Before removal, the software allows you to review the scan report to make sure legitimate programs and cookies are not removed. The program loads quickly and scanning time is dependent on speed of the computer and number of files.
I have been using the program for over a year and have found it very effective in the removal of malicious software. While no program can detect every form of malicious software, Ad-Aware comes very close.
To download a free copy:
http://www.download.com/3405-8022-5153545.html?part=dl-ad-aware&subj=dl&tag=top5