Setting Up the Browser Add-ons Shields

You can set up Spy Sweeper to continuously monitor the list of browser add-ons installed. Some spyware, adware, or unwanted programs install browser add-ons if you are not protected.

When Spy Sweeper detects activity related to browser add-ons, it displays an alert. For more information, see Handling Alerts and Warnings.

Spy Sweeper also lets you edit the browser add-ons items.

If the shields are unavailable (dimmed), you may not have access to this function. For more information, see Understanding How Spy Sweeper Works with Multiple User Accounts.

To set up the browser add-on shields

Start Spy Sweeper, if it is not already open, and display the main window.
For more information, see Starting Spy Sweeper.
In the icon panel, click Shields.
For information about the Spy Sweeper window, see Understanding the Spy Sweeper Window.
The Shields panel displays, showing a summary of the available shields and their status. A check mark means the shield is turned on. An x means the shield is not turned on.
Click the Browser Add-ons tab.
The Browser Add-ons tab displays.
Select the options you want to use.

Click to see a description of each option.

Option	Description
Browser Helper Object (BHO) Shield	This option actively watches your computer for the installation of Browser Helper Objects (BHOs). Whenever a BHO tries to install itself, Spy Sweeper lets you know and gives you the option to accept or reject the change. BHOs are add-on programs that work with your browser. Some spyware, adware, or other unwanted programs add BHOs without your knowledge. This shield ensures that programs do not add a BHO without you being aware of it. For more information about what happens when a BHO tries to install, see Handling Alerts and Warnings.
Edit BHOs Used by Internet Explorer	Editing BHOs is for advanced users. Deselecting BHOs from the list could cause your browser to not work properly or cause your computer to be unstable. Edit with extreme caution. Installed BHOs display in the list. To see more information about an item, select it and click More Details. Not all programs provide additional details. After you make a change, click Save Changes.