When you buy through affiliate links in our content, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn The best spyware remover tools can scour your device for spy software and eradicate threats and malware. Spyware tools allow hackers and malicious individuals to access your messages, track your activity, steal your passwords, and even hack your camera and microphone. Because of this, if you suspect you’ve been infected with spyware, it’s critical to get it off your device as quickly as possible.
In my guide to the best spyware removal tools, I’ll explain what each one can do for you so you can get spy apps off your device fast. I’ll also cover their features, functionality, and pricing, based on my own extensive testing, so you can find the right solution for your needs.
- Show Full Guide
TotalAV – Best Spyware Remover for Real-Time Monitoring and Comprehensive Protection
Surfshark Antivirus – Best Spyware Removal Software with a Feature-Rich VPN
CyberGhost – Smart Spyware Security Package with a World-Class VPN
NordVPN Threat Protection – Best Spyware Blocker for Web Protection, with a Global VPN
The Best Spyware Removal Tools Ranked
- TotalAV – Best spyware remover for real-time monitoring and comprehensive protection
- Surfshark Antivirus – Best spyware removal software with a feature-rich VPN
- CyberGhost – Smart spyware security package with a world-class VPN
- Norton – Best anti-spyware software with a Virus Protection Promise
- NordVPN Threat Protection – Best spyware blocker for web protection, with a global VPN
- Trend Micro – Top spyware protection tool with AI-led malware detection
- Intego – Best spyware removal service built for Mac
- Avast – Best free spyware removal tool with a feature-rich free plan
- McAfee – Best spyware software solution for Windows 10 and beginners
The Top Spyware Detectors Reviewed
Based on our comprehensive assessment methodology, I’ve thoroughly researched and tested 15 of the best antivirus software products to find the best spyware detectors on the market. My shortlist is based on the products that deliver the best spyware removal capabilities and that offer the best overall protection from spyware.
In this section of my guide, I’ll discuss each of my top picks in detail, including their features, plans, and pricing.
1. TotalAV – Best Spyware Remover for Real-Time Monitoring
| Starting Price | $19/year |
|---|---|
| Free Version / Trial | Free plan |
| Max Devices | 8 |
| Antivirus Testing Results | 17.5/18 (Protection: 6/6, Performance: 5.5/6, Usability: 6/6) |
| Device Compatibility | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android |
Why We Picked It
TotalAV is a popular antivirus solution and is known for its spyware and malware removal tools. It’s a robust pick for real-time protection and comprehensive security, and I rate it as the overall best spyware remover on the market today.
Features
TotalAV’s core plan provides everything you need to find and remove spyware and block ransomware attacks. Every TotalAV plan offers real-time device monitoring, ensuring spyware will be rapidly detected and neutralized. To keep your existing files safe, you can also schedule scans on your system.
Spyware will often download malicious files or software to your device. If this happens, you’ll be notified immediately, and TotalAV will begin to neutralize it.
These features make it far harder for spyware to steal your data. In the event that your details are stolen, though, TotalAV’s Data Breach Monitoring feature will notify you if it finds your email and passwords online, so you can update your security information.
Antivirus Testing Results
In almost every TotalAV VB100 test, the software got a perfect score and managed to find 100% of hidden malicious files with zero false positives.
In AV-Test’s latest round of assessments, TotalAV easily dealt with 100% of the 11,000+ malware samples it was presented with, for both zero-day and widespread threats – spyware included.
The antivirus didn’t incorrectly flag any legitimate applications or websites, and performance was solid, too, with TotalAV only showing impact by slowing down software installation on average PCs slightly more than industry averages.
Pricing
TotalAV’s cheapest plan from costs $19/year. It includes the provider’s core antivirus features and will enable you to tackle spyware, ransomware, and phishing attacks.
Upgrading to TotalAV Internet Security ($39/year) will get you a VPN, while TotalAV Total Security ($49/year) includes a password manager, and all plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Who It’s Best For
TotalAV’s comprehensive security package provides excellent spyware removal tools. Its affordable introductory pricing, meanwhile, makes it ideal for individuals and families. I recommend it as the best spyware removal tool today.
Find out more in our TotalAV review.
Pros
- Schedule scans as you need
- Unlimited bandwidth VPN with higher-tier plans
- Unparalleled real-time anti-spyware protection
- Works simultaneously on eight devices
- Top Reddit-recommended antivirus
Cons
- Limited free features
2. Surfshark Antivirus – Best Spyware Removal Software with a Feature-Rich VPN
| Starting Price | $34.86/year |
|---|---|
| Free Version / Trial | 7-day VPN trial |
| Max Devices | 5 |
| Antivirus Testing Results | 17.5/18 (Protection: 6/6, Performance: 5.5/6, Usability: 6/6) |
| Device Compatibility | Windows, Mac, Android |
Why We Picked It
Surfshark’s affordable and user-friendly antivirus software also comes with a first-class, feature-packed VPN. Surfshark also offers 24/7 monitoring, much like TotalAV, to protect your device from spyware.
Features
Surfshark scans files in real-time, when downloading and installing files and software. This way, if they’re really hiding spyware, the threat can be neutralized before any damage can be done.
To keep its virus definitions current, Surshark updates its database every three hours. This means that no matter what type of spyware is introduced to the market, Surfshark will have a record of it in its database as soon as it’s identified.
What sets Surfshark apart from TotalAV is the additional webcam protection feature. Spyware will often be able to access your webcam, meaning malicious individuals can spy on you and your surroundings.
With Surfshark, your webcam will be locked to non-approved programs and external users, and you’ll be notified if apps try to access it.
With its Email Masking feature, Surfshark also lets you create and manage a unique online alias with a different name, email, and date of birth to protect your real details during sign ups.
Antivirus Testing Results
Surfshark Antivirus got a stellar 6/6 score for protection in AV-Test’s most recent trials and was able to detect and remove 100% of malware.
Usability was also excellent, and the software didn’t send any incorrect alerts when faced with almost a million samples. Performance left some room for improvement, though, and the antivirus had an impact on lower-end PCs, slowing down website launching by 34% against an industry standard of 19%.
Pricing
With Surfshark’s second-tier plan, Surfshark One, you get the antivirus and VPN for $34.86/year with a two-year subscription. For additional identity protection features, you can also upgrade to Surfshark One+ for $59.85/year. Both plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Who It’s Best For
If you’re worried about your privacy and security online, Surfshark Antivirus is an ideal solution. It allows you to scan your device for spyware, access real-time protection, and encrypt, secure, and anonymize your online traffic. It’s also a notably lightweight solution.
For more information, read our Surfshark antivirus review.
Pros
- Comes with a private search engine
- Handy features like Split Tunneling and CleanWeb
- Run scheduled and custom scans
- Private data exposure alerts
Cons
- Need to upgrade for anti-malware protection
3. CyberGhost – Smart Spyware Scanner with a World-Class VPN
| Starting Price | $40.47/year |
|---|---|
| Free Version / Trial | 24-hour trial |
| Max Devices | 7 |
| Antivirus Testing Results | Strong spyware detection and removal capabilities recorded |
| Device Compatibility | Windows |
Why We Picked It
CyberGhost’s antivirus, CyberGhost Security Suite, is available as an add-on for its robust VPN and is a perfect sidekick for complete Windows protection. It offers complete 24/7 protection against Trojans, spyware, ransomware, adware, and other threats.
Features
I loved CyberGhost’s centralized dashboard. It’s similar to the VPN interface, with a clean modern UI. It also incorporates a number of other features.
As Windows has loads of privacy settings scattered throughout the system, finding and fine-tuning each one takes time and effort. CyberGhost assembles 76 of these key settings in one place, so you can customize them to your needs.
You’ll be able to track all recent scans, quarantine files, and other updates straight from the dashboard. You’ll also find an update scanner that’ll let you know when apps need an update.
The reports tell you how many files were scanned and the number and type of threats found, quarantined, and neutralized. This comes in handy to locate files that have been causing trouble.
It’s also worth noting that CyberGhost’s VPN has been independently audited, proving that its security claims are accurate.
Antivirus Testing Results
In my testing, the antivirus add-on neutralized 100% of 1,800+ malware and spyware samples, and its capabilities proved solid for both real-time protection and system scans.
On the downside, I had less success using CyberGhost to flag phishing attempts, and it slowed my browsing speed by around 18%.
Pricing
CyberGhost offers a single plan with a decreasing monthly rate for longer subscriptions and the option to add anti-malware software tools for $1/month. The cheapest rate comes in at $40.47/year with the security tools included.
There’s also a 45-day money-back guarantee and the option of a 24-hour trial.
Who It’s Best For
CyberGhost offers solid security and spyware removal tools, and the top-notch VPN is a significant benefit for online privacy and security.
While it’s not as comprehensive a solution as Surfshark’s VPN offering, it is slightly cheaper, making it a good fit for privacy-focused users on a budget.
Pros
- Among the best Windows antiviruses with centralized settings
- Reliable VPN with servers in 100 countries
- Works on 7 devices simultaneously
- Very affordable, especially on the two-year plan
Cons
- Anti-spyware features are an add-on
- No independent security audit
4. Norton – Best Anti-Spyware Solution with a Virus Protection Promise
| Starting Price | $19.99/year |
|---|---|
| Free Version / Trial | 30-day trial |
| Max Devices | Unlimited |
| Antivirus Testing Results | 17.5/18 (Protection: 6/6, Performance: 5.5/6, Usability: 6/6 |
| Device Compatibility | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android |
Why We Picked It
Norton is a well-known security service and has excellent tools for removing spyware from your device.
Norton’s Virus Protection Promise is the icing on the cake and means that if the software can’t remove a virus from your device, even with expert support, the company will refund your money – which is a testament to its quality of service.
Features
If you’re someone who’s frequently on video calls, you’ll love Norton’s SafeCam feature. Most spy apps stay hidden on your system and may be able to access your webcam. SafeCam monitors your camera, immediately blocks spyware, and notifies you of the same.
Norton’s firewall is also different from others. The Norton Smart Firewall monitors all traffic received and sent from your device to protect you from attacks and data exfiltration.
Plus, its real-time social media monitoring comes in handy for social bees. Norton highlights malicious links on Twitter, Facebook, and web-based emails, ensuring that you can browse your social platforms without the fear of being watched.
You can test all these features and more with the generous 60-day money-back guarantee – the longest I’ve seen. Plus, you get a 30-day free trial.
Antivirus Testing Results
According to AV-Test, Norton had a 100% success rate for protection against zero-day and prevalent malware, including web and email threats. You shouldn’t expect a heavy system load with the software, either, as Norton hovers around industry averages for browsing, downloading, and app installation.
On top of that, the antivirus scores 6/6 for usability, with one false alarm from over 1 million legitimate application and website samples.
Pricing
Norton’s entry-level plan is available for $19.99/year and can protect one device. It includes Norton’s password manager, secure cloud storage, and protection from malware, ransomware, and spyware.
Norton 360 Deluxe ($49.99/year) is a great upgrade option and adds support for five devices, 50GB of secure backups, a VPN, dark web monitoring, and parental controls. The most expensive plan, Norton 360 with LifeLock Ultimate Plus, costs $299.99/year and includes extensive identity protection features.
Who It’s Best For
Norton’s Virus Protection Promise is a gold standard for the industry. If you believe you’ve been infected, Norton is committed to fixing the problem – and the guarantee is included with the spyware remover’s cheapest plan, so it’s available to every paying user.
For more information, check out our Norton antivirus review.
Pros
- Comes with a secure VPN from the Standard Plan onwards
- Offers a password manager on all plans
- Comes with an advanced firewall
- Real-time social media monitoring
Cons
- Can be heavy on older devices
- Entry-level plan only covers one device
5. NordVPN Threat Protection – Best Spyware Blocker for Web Protection, with a Global VPN
| Starting Price | $52.52/year |
|---|---|
| Free Version / Trial | 7-day Android trial |
| Max Devices | 10 |
| Antivirus Testing Results | Strong spyware removal testing results |
| Device Compatibility | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux |
Why We Picked It
Nord Threat Protection is included with NordVPN, one of the best VPNs in the business, with 6,400+ servers in 111 countries offering class-leading privacy, speed, and access to geo-restricted content from around the world.
Features
Threat Protection scans files you download online for malware and potentially unwanted programs – after all, that’s the major source of threat for your system. If it finds any suspicious files, it deletes them before it can wreak havoc on your system.
Websites you visit are often full of third-party trackers, too. These keep an eye on your online activity to target you with intrusive ads. Nord Threat Protection blocks these trackers so that you can enjoy high levels of privacy when browsing online.
Similarly, many websites are filled with intrusive ads that can often be riddled with malicious spyware and malware. Nord Protection blocks these ads even before they get a chance to load, ensuring you can enjoy an ad-free browsing experience.
Enabling Nord Threat Protection is a breeze. You simply need to open the Nord app, click the shield icon, and toggle the Threat Protection switch on.
As with CyberGhost, Nord Threat Protection may lack independent testing, but it’s from a brand renowned for its online security. Plus, tests conducted on the VPN and password manager have proven it’s undoubtedly a safe protection solution.
Antivirus Testing Results
In my testing, Threat Protection blocked 100% of the 2,000+ web malware and spyware samples I accessed. Performance was solid, too, and the software only incorrectly flagged one legitimate download from a pool of 1,000+ samples.
Pricing
For NordVPN Threat Protection, you’ll need to subscribe to the Plus plan for $52.52/year with a two-year subscription. This also includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.
The Complete plan, at $4.89/month with a two-year subscription, adds 1TB of secure storage, while the NordVPN Prime tier adds identity protection features and costs $7.89/month.
Who It’s Best For
NordVPN Threat Protection is a great solution for rock-solid web protection, and it’s coupled with a fast, secure VPN with a huge global network. If you’re worried about being exposed to malicious links or download files, Nord Threat Protection is ideal.
Find out more in our NordVPN Threat Protection review.
Pros
- Online privacy-focused spyware remover
- Detailed 7-day protection summary
- URL trimming removes trackers in links
- Comes with useful browser extensions
Cons
- No full system scans
- Limited free options
6. Trend Micro – Best Spyware Protection Tool for AI-Led Spyware Detection
| Starting Price | $14.95/year |
|---|---|
| Free Version / Trial | Free tools, 30-day trial |
| Max Devices | 10 |
| Antivirus Testing Results | 18/18 (Protection: 6/6, Performance: 6/6, Usability: 6/6) |
| Device Compatibility | Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Chromebook |
Why We Picked It
Trend Micro offers a wide range of affordable plans, and it’s one of the best solutions for AI-led threat detection and real-time protection, which makes it ideal for detecting and removing spyware.
Features
The Trend Micro spyware remover is extremely easy to use. You simply need to run the software and click on Start Scan. It also comes with a Custom Scan option, where you can select specific locations to run a spyware scan on.
In addition, Trend Micro allows you to scan specific files, so you can check recent downloads, for example, saving you from scanning the entire system.
The Smart Protection Network is another strong feature. Trend Micro is an ever-evolving spyware remover that learns from every device in its network, noting all the threats previously removed on devices using Trend Micro.
It uses this information to remove any future threats on devices on its network, and its 100% AV-Test score for zero-day malware detection just goes to prove the effectiveness of its technology.
Trend Micro can scan all the devices connected to your home network for spyware and malware and remove threats immediately.
Antivirus Testing Results
Scoring 6/6 across AV-Test metrics for protection, usability, and performance, Trend Micro was able to efficiently handle threats without issuing any false warnings.
Regarding malware and spyware, the antivirus neutralized 100% of 14,500+ samples, including zero-day and common threats. Performance impact was also minimal, as Trend Micro didn’t significantly slow down either average or high-end PCs.
Pricing
Trend Micro’s starter plan is priced at $14.95/year and will protect one Windows device with real-time protection, scans, and web security and the ability to block spyware and ransomware.
Trend Micro Maximum Security ($39.95/year) adds quite a bit more, with parental controls, system optimization tools, a password manager, and protection for five devices across Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.
Who It’s Best For
Trend Micro’s AI-driven scanning technology can give users the edge in tracking down spyware embedded in their system. If you suspect a threat isn’t being caught by other security software, try Trend Micro.
The platform’s user-friendly interface also makes it a good pick for families and beginners.
For more information, read our Trend Micro antivirus review.
Pros
- A free forever antivirus solution
- Doesn’t collect any personal data
- Supports unlimited devices
- Offers URL-level detection
Cons
- Starter plan only covers one device
- No firewall protection
7. Intego – Best Spyware Removal Service Built for Mac
| Starting Price | $24.99/year |
|---|---|
| Free Version / Trial | Free tools, 30-day trial |
| Max Devices | 5 |
| Antivirus Testing Results | 16.5/18 (Protection: 5.5/6, Performance: 5/6, Usability: 6/6) |
| Device Compatibility | Windows, Mac |
Why We Picked It
Intego was specifically built for Macs, and it does an excellent job of protecting macOS devices from spyware and other security threats.
Features
When it comes to Intego’s security offering, I particularly appreciate its location-specific and daily automated scans – scan types that leading antiviruses like Trend Micro don’t offer.
Location-specific scans allow you to run targeted scans on folders you’re suspicious of, while automated scans are ideal for routine system maintenance.
When Intego finds a malicious entity during scans, it gives you control of how you want the system to be protected. You can repair and remove the threat immediately or quarantine it in a separate folder to stop it from spreading.
Many users will also like Intego’s comprehensive financial protection. It blocks ransomware, banking Trojans, and cryptocurrency stealing malware, ensuring you don’t fall prey to online financial scams.
Intego also provides zero-day protection, blocking advanced and emerging threats that have only just been discovered and which developers may not have had a chance to neutralize.
However, I was a little disappointed by Intego’s inability to run real-time scans on web activity or downloads due to Mac App limitations – and it doesn’t support Android or iPhone mobile devices. That said, its scans make up for it, as it includes email and pop-up protection.
Antivirus Testing Results
In a recent AV-Comparatives audit, Intego blocked 99.1% of Mac malware and 93% of potentially unwanted applications. Windows threat protection was even better, with a 100% protection rate with a pool of 500+ samples.
Performance-wise, Intego didn’t significantly burden average machines when downloading and launching apps in AV-Test’s assessments, but installing new software was slower than average.
Pricing
Intego’s cheapest Mac plan costs $24.99/year with a two-year subscription. You can add a VPN for $1.67/month and upgrade to the Intego Mac Premium Bundle at just $29.99/year. All plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Who It’s Best For
Intego is a first-class Mac spyware remover, and its results in testing underline its effectiveness in removing malware and other threats from Macs.
Find out more in our Intego antivirus review.
Pros
- One of the best Mac antiviruses
- Comes with an inbuilt firewall
- Superior parental controls
- Allows you to make a personal backup
Cons
- No mobile apps
- Less support for Windows
8. Avast – Best Free Spyware Remover, Packed with Features
| Starting Price | $23.88/year |
|---|---|
| Free Version / Trial | Free plan, 30-day trial |
| Max Devices | 30 |
| Antivirus Testing Results | 18/18 (Protection: 6/6, Performance: 6/6, Usability: 6/6) |
| Device Compatibility | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android |
Why We Picked It
Avast is one of the best free spyware solutions you’ll find, with a full suite of security tools to protect you from spyware and ransomware.
Features
Among Avast’s scan types, the Boot Time scan is a feature that stands out. It runs a scan before your system boots up, so viruses, malware, and malicious scripts can’t hide in otherwise undetectable locations.
The Avast free antivirus also comes with a robust anti-spyware scanner that prevents your personal files from the prying eyes of online intruders. This is normally found in paid plans, but Avast offers it for free.
Upgrading to Avast’s paid plans unlocks some very useful features, such as a webcam scanner, an advanced firewall, and a shopping safety tools.
The webcam scanner is handy for those who regularly participate in online meetings. Avast scans your webcam for any suspicious trackers and removes them.
With 435 million+ active users and 30 years of experience, Avast certainly delivers great value for money.
Antivirus Testing Results
In AV-Test’s latest evaluations, Avast detected and removed 100% of virus samples, including email threats and zero-day and widespread malware.
Performance was also impressive, as the antivirus consistently showed lower system impact than the competition across actions like web browsing and app downloading and installation.
Pricing
Avast offers a wide range of plans, as well as an excellent free anti-spyware software solution that can block malware and safeguard your inbox. Upgrading to paid plans adds a firewall, web protection, and an app updater.
Avast One Silver starts at $23.88/year for its protection plan, but Antivirus Premium Security is the cheapest dedicated antivirus package. It costs $30.99/year for one device or $39.99/year for ten. Impressively, the company’s Avast One Gold Family plan allows you to protect 30 devices.
Who It’s Best For
Avast is perfect if you’re looking for a free spyware software tool. It provides an impressive feature set that only gets better if you upgrade to a paid plan.
For more information, read our Avast antivirus review.
Pros
- Offers various scan types
- Scan for Wi-Fi security weaknesses on the free plan
- Can be used on up to 10 simultaneous devices
- Dynamic security protocols help develop device immunity against new spyware
Cons
- Limited free VPN
- UI could be improved
9. McAfee – Best Spyware Software Solution for Windows 10
| Starting Price | $39.99/year |
|---|---|
| Free Version / Trial | 30-day trial |
| Max Devices | Unlimited |
| Antivirus Testing Results | 17.5/18 (Protection: 6/6, Performance: 6/6, Usability: 5.5/6) |
| Device Compatibility | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android |
Why We Picked It
McAfee is a perfect solution for beginners. The provider goes a step further than its competitors with its support team of in-house experts, who’ll solve any issues you might be facing. It’s also a great solution for Windows users.
Features
A popular McAfee feature is its Protection Score, which rates your system’s overall health and offers suggestions to improve it. For example, if your email password has been compromised, it’ll recommend you change it to boost your score.
McAfee also comes with a file shredder that deletes sensitive files to ensure no traces are left behind. Moreover, McAfee’s identity monitoring keeps an eye on your emails, SSNs, bank accounts, and credit cards and notifies you immediately if there are any changes.
In terms of dedicated spyware and ransomware protection, McAfee’s Ransom Guard strengthens your device’s security to combat unauthorized file encryption or spyware installation attempts.
McAfee also creates a secure backup of the files that were under attack so no data is lost. Among other features, McAfee offers a VPN, a password manager, and parental control features, round it out as a complete security system for full coverage.
Antivirus Testing Results
AV-Test put 11,000 malware samples to McAfee in its latest trials, and the antivirus neutralized 100% of them while nevertheless having a lower-than-average impact on system performance across the board.
It got a 5.5/6 score for Usability, though the software incorrectly flagged just two legitimate apps and actions as potentially malicious in a pool of over 1 million samples.
Pricing
McAfee’s offering runs from the $39.99/year Essential package for five devices to the Ultimate plan, which includes extensive identity protection tools for $199.99/year. There are also family plans to cover additional devices and add parental control tools. All plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Who It’s Best For
With its impressive feature set, McAfee is ideal for implementing multi-layered digital security to combat spyware and to keep your system secure in the future. It’s also one of the best spyware tools for protecting Windows devices.
Find out more in our McAfee antivirus review.
Pros
- A handy Protection Score feature
- One of the best antiviruses for Android
- Excellent independent test scores
- Very light on system resources
- VPN protection included
Cons
- No free tier
- Slow full Windows scan
Comparing the Best Spyware Removal Software in 2025
The table below provides an overview of my picks so you can quickly compare the key details for each provider:
| Spyware Removers | Starting Price | Free Version / Trial | Max Devices | Antivirus Testing Results | Device Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TotalAV | $19/year | Free plan | 8 | 18/18 (Protection: 6/6, Performance: 5.5/6, Usability: 6/6) | Windows, Mac, iOS, Android |
| Surfshark AV | $34.86/year | VPN trial | 5 | 17.5/18 (Protection: 6/6, Performance: 5.5/6, Usability: 6/6) | Windows, Mac, Android |
| CyberGhost | $40.47/year | 24-hour trial for desktop | 7 | Strong spyware detection and removal capabilities recorded | Windows |
| Norton | $19.99/year | 30-day trial | Unlimited | 17.5/18 (Protection: 6/6, Performance: 5.5/6, Usability: 6/6 | Windows, Mac, iOS, Android |
| NordVPN Threat Protection | $52.52/year | 7-day Android trial | 10 | Strong spyware removal testing results | Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux |
| Trend Micro | $14.95/year | Free tools, 30-day trial | 10 | 18/18 (Protection: 6/6, Performance: 6/6, Usability: 6/6) | Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Chromebook |
| Intego | $24.99/year | Free tools, 30-day trial | 5 | 16.5/18 (Protection: 5.5/6, Performance: 5/6, Usability: 6/6) | Windows, Mac |
| Avast | $23.88/year | Free plan, 30-day trial | 30 | 18/18 (Protection: 6/6, Performance: 6/6, Usability: 6/6) | Windows, Mac, iOS, Android |
| McAfee | $39.99/year | 30-day trial | Unlimited | 17.5/18 (Protection: 6/6, Performance: 6/6, Usability: 5.5/6) | Windows, Mac, iOS, Android |
How We Review And Test Antivirus Software
15 Antiviruses Tested
20 Datapoints Measured
300+ Hours Testing
500+ User Reviews Read
We base our recommendations on first-hand experience and in-depth testing. All the Antivirus products we suggest, have been tested based on the following criteria:
- Core Security Features: We make sure that the antivirus software is fully equipped with features like real-time protection, scanning, a firewall, web protection, and more.
- Malware Detection Rates: We test malware detection rates ourselves by running both in-depth and quick scans on our devices. Additionally, we check independent lab tests.
- Compatibility: We check which devices and operating systems the antivirus software is compatible with. Often, different-looking dashboards and slightly different packages of features may be available.
- Performance Impact: A reliable and functional antivirus should not slow down your device significantly. So, we examine our device performance with and without the antivirus running.
- Customer Experience: Alongside our own experience, we are curious to know what real users have to say regarding the services. So, we’ve scoured the web for feedback on each of our tested antiviruses.
- Value for Money: We always consider value for money and how much each product is offering for the set price point.
Do You Have a Spyware Infection? What Are the Most Common Typеs of Spywarе and Malwarе?
Spyware and malware are malicious software programs designed to infiltrate and harm your device or steal sensitive information. Here are some common types of spyware and malware:
- Adware – This type of malware displays unwanted advertisements on your device, often pop-ups or banners. While not always harmful, it can be annoying, dampening your browsing experience.
- Trojan Horse – These are disguised as legitimate software, tricking users into installing them. Once installed, they can perform various malicious actions, such as stealing data or providing unauthorized access to the attacker.
- Potentially Unwanted Applications (PUAs) – These are programs that may not be outright malicious but are often unwanted due to their behavior, such as aggressive advertising, tracking, or changing browser settings without clear consent.
- Spyware – Spyware is designed to gather information about a user’s activities without their knowledge. It can monitor keystrokes, record browsing habits, and collect sensitive data.
- Worms – This self-replicating malware spreads across networks and devices without user interaction. They can exploit security vulnerabilities to infect systems.
- Ransomware – These threats encrypt the victim’s files and the attacker demands a ransom payment for a decryption key. It’s devastating, resulting in data loss or significant financial harm.
- Rootkits – This online threat is designed to hide their presence on a compromised system by modifying system files or processes. They often grant unauthorized access to attackers.
How Accuratе Arе Spyware Softwarе Rеmoval Tools?
I focused on products consistently demonstrating exceptional performance in my testing and independent evaluation by security labs, such as AV-Test and AV-Comparatives.
I’ve taken great care to hand-pick removal tools that have a proven track record of delivering outstanding results, including 100% malware detection rates and solid marks on core aspects such as performance, usability, and protection (as per AV-Test.org).
They swiftly identify patterns and behaviors associated with malicious software with advanced algorithms, signature databases, and heuristic analysis, enabling them to detect known and emerging threats to provide comprehensive defense against potential attacks.
While no tool can guarantee absolute protection, thorough testing, continuous updates, and proven track records ensure that the top malicious software removal tools are effective at maintaining a secure digital environment for their users.
For more advice, see our guides on how to remove spyware from iPhone and how to remove spyware from Android.
How To Choose the Best Anti-Spyware Software
When looking at the top spyware removers for your needs, there are a number of key factors to consider. These include:
Security
The software’s ability to detect all spyware types, including known and emerging threats, is obviously essential. Effective spyware removers should also offer a robust defense against other malware and viruses to ensure comprehensive protection for your data and device.
Spyware protection software that offers multi-layered security systems can tackle even sophisticated spyware attacks.
Features
When assessing the best spyware removers, it’s naturally important to examine each provider’s features, such as:
- Scanning options
- Real-time protection capabilities
- Quarantine and removal functionalities
- And additional tools that enhance overall cybersecurity
Features like web protection, a firewall, and optimization utilities add value to the software’s effectiveness in combating spyware threats, so it’s worth looking out for these features.
Technical Support
The quality and accessibility of technical support provided by spyware removers can make a big difference to their quality of service.
Having access to multiple customer support channels, responsive communication, and knowledgeable assistance is vital for navigating and resolving issues. Having a comprehensive knowledge base is also very valuable for resolving issues+.
Ease of Use and Compatibility
Usability can make a big difference to your experience of a product. Intuitive interfaces and a straightforward setup process make getting started simple.
Compatibility with different operating systems and devices is also important, ensuring you can find a suitable solution that aligns with your digital devices.
Accuracy and Efficiency of Scans
Spyware removers should accurately identify and remove existing spyware without generating false positives that disrupt legitimate programs. My reviews highlight scan efficiency and the ability of products to detect threats while having minimal impact on device performance.
Regular and Automatic Updates
Regular updates are crucial for maintaining the effectiveness of spyware removers, so the provider’s commitment to keeping its spyware definition database current to combat new and evolving threats is important.
Automatic updates are naturally also important for real-time protection.
Value for Money
It’s worth looking at the affordability of the various plans each software provider offers and what they include with their most affordable plans. Of course, it’s worth keeping in mind that the cheapest solutions don’t always deliver the best value for money.
How to Run a Spyware Scan
Running a spyware scan is vital in safeguarding your device from potential threats. Using TotalAV as an example, I’ll explore how to effectively perform one to ensure the security and privacy of your digital environment.
Launch TotalAV
Open the TotalAV application on your device. If you need to set up an account, go to the TotalAV website, sign up for a subscription, and download the software.
Choose Scan Type
TotalAV offers several scan types:
- Quick Scan – This option scans critical areas of your system for common threats. It’s a faster scan.
- System Scan – This comprehensive scan checks your system for various threats, including spyware.
- Custom Scan – This allows you to select specific files, folders, or drives to scan.
Start the Scan
Select the scan type you want and click the scan button. TotalAV will begin scanning your system for spyware and other threats.
A scan usually takes 5-10 minutes to finish, following which the software will keep the detected viruses in the Quarantine Virus Vault.
Review Scan Results
Once the scan is complete, TotalAV will display a report of the threats detected. Spyware and other malicious items will be listed along with their details.
Clean Up and Finish
After you’ve taken action on the threats detected, TotalAV will prompt you to clean up or restart your system.
What’s thе Bеst Frее Spywarе Rеmoval Solution?
TotalAV is a reliable and effective option and is among the best free spyware removal solutions. It provides a comprehensive free version of its security software, which comes with robust spyware detection and removal capabilities.
However, while spyware removal freeware can be valuable tools in the fight against malicious software, it’s important to recognize their limitations. Free versions don’t match paid plans and generally lack:
- Advanced protection
- Features such as firewall protection
- Coverage of multiple devices at the same time
- Insights on attacks and system health
All this makes investing in a premium security suite a far better option than getting a spyware remover free of charge. Given just how damaging spyware can be, it’s worth taking it seriously and acting fast.
Conclusion – What is the Best Spyware Remover?
If you’re worried that bad actors may have access to your files and personal data or your device’s camera and microphone, then it’s important to get a reliable antivirus as quickly as possible. After extensive research, I rank TotalAV as the best spyware remover on the market right now.
You get a reliable system scanner to root out malware, and TotalAV will constantly monitor your device for irregular behavior. That means that if spyware attempts to download malicious files or change system configuration files, then the antivirus will notify you immediately.
FAQs
What programs remove spyware?
What’s the best spyware detector?
Is there a free removal of malware and spyware?
Can spyware see you?
Can someone install spyware on my phone without me knowing?
References
- The Ultimate Guide to Online Security (University of the People)
- TotalAV Tests (Virus Bulletin)
- TotalAV testing (AV-Test)
- Norton Internet Security testing (AV-Test)
- Surfshark Antivirus testing (AV-Test)
- Trend Micro Titanium Maximum Security testing (AV-Test)
- Intego Mac Internet Security X9 testing (AV-Test)
- Avast Free Antivirus testing (AV-Test)
- McAfee Internet Security testing (AV-Test)
- Mac Security Test & Review 2024 (AV-Comparatives)
