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<DIV>Spybot Search and Destroy is a good program for anyone who uses the Internet. Created by Patrick Kolla, it is updated frequently and the download and updates are free. Go to <A href="http://www.safer-networking.org">www.safer-networking.org</A> to download the program. There is a request for donations if you use and appreciate the program. I run the program after every lengthy Internet session. It detects tracking cookies (which send back information about your Internet use and what sites you visit to the websites that implanted them) and also the really nasty intruders like Xupiter that replace your home page without your consent. Some of these cookies and files create memory conflicts with operating systems that slow down your computer or cause erratic behavior, but since they are not worms or viruses, they are ignored by most virus software. Since I have been using Spybot Search and Destroy, I have had much less e-mail spam and have quick resolution to any computer programs arising from web browsing. One caution: there are other "spybot" type programs out there that offer "free" downloads. These are actually free trials that expire after a certain length of time and you have to send them money to get the codes to reactivate or uninstall. I made the mistake of downloading one of these and was then faced with the difficulty of actually uninstalling the software and nuisance icons on my desktop.</DIV>
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<DIV>Off list topic, I know, but apropos to the recent real or perceived computer problems associated with the list!</DIV>
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<DIV>Carla</DIV></BODY></HTML>