How to deal with Spyware - Microsoft acquires anti-spyware technology

"Microsoft plans to make available to Windows customers a beta version of a spyware protection, detection and removal tool, based on the GIANT AntiSpyware product, within one month. The upcoming beta will scan a customer's PC to locate spyware and other deceptive software threats and enable customers to remove them. The tool will be configurable to block known spyware and other unwanted software from being installed on the computer. It will be available for Microsoft Windows 2000 and later versions."

Full details can be found @ the following URL:

https://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/spyware/default.mspx