Spyware Could Interfere with the Installation of Service Pack 2 for Windows XP

Microsoft has advised users that before they download SP 2 for Windows XP they scan their systems for spyware

Madrid, Spain - It has been detected that spyware type of malware can interfere with the installation of the service pack, according to a report by CNN.com.

The term 'spyware' is used to describe programs that are installed on computers in order to gather data without the permission or knowledge of the users of the computer. They are often downloaded as a component of another application and a frequently linked to adware.

Certain spyware components have been detected that can block systems when Service Pack 2 for Windows XP is being installed, preventing the service pack from being installed. Microsoft has therefore advised that before trying to install SP2, users scan their systems to remove any spyware programs.

Although there are many anti-spyware and anti-adware utilities available to scan computers on-demand, there are also solutions -such as Platinum Internet Security-, which not only detect viruses, worms and Trojans but also adware and spyware.

The advantage with solutions like the one mentioned above is that to protect against spyware and adware, users don't have to install separate utilities (which can be costly and have a negative impact on system performance). With Platinum Internet Security for example, protection against spyware and adware, as well as against viruses, worms and Trojans is automatic and permanent.