The Hassle: I use a free antispyware program, but an online scanner showed that I still have about a dozen spyware programs. Will I ever be free of spyware?

The Fix: Getting rid of every trace of spyware takes work, but it can be done. Think you have it bad? Check this infestation.

This will sound extreme, but I want you to scan your PC with three antispyware programs--one commercial, the other two freebies--to capture and remove everything. In my experience, each scanner finds different spyware. (All noncommercial products I mention are available at my Favorite Malware Stoppers downloads page.)

Start with one of my three top-rated commercial favorites: SpySweeper, Spyware Doctor, or (the one I use) CounterSpy. (PC World's Antispyware Software chart offers reviews of all three.) Don't install all three, though; they'll just fight each other.

After you've completed a scan, follow the antispyware software's advice to quarantine the nasties. Then scan again, this time with TrendMicro's online HouseCall, followed by Spyware Guide's online X-Cleaner Micro Edition. Follow the advice of each utility as you proceed.

You're not done yet. Scan once more with your antivirus program. Reboot and rescan once more with the commercial program. Your system should be clean.

Warning: Trust only antispyware programs recommended by sites such as PCWorld.com, and never touch the pop-up offers on unknown Web sites. Eric Howes's Spyware Warrior site reports on malware masquerading as antispyware applications.

The Hassle: Your scanning strategy didn't work. What do I do now?

The Fix: Give extratough malware a swift kick with these tactics.

Spyware can lurk in old System Restore points, so remove all except the latest one. Read the directions to learn how.

Repeat the three-program scan strategy discussed earlier.

Still no luck? Some spyware components are obstinate. To pry them loose, boot to Safe Mode: Hold down <F8> while rebooting the PC, and then choose Safe Mode. Rescan and reboot.

If you're still struggling, call for help. My number is--just kidding. Download and run HijackThis. Click Do a system scan and save a logfile. Save the file and post it to the forum at either SpywareInfo or Tech Support Guy.

To keep your rig spyware-free going forward, set your antispyware and anti-virus apps to monitor your system. And use a firewall, such as ZoneAlarm Free.

Quick tip: Don't fall for the spyware trick using phony messages that pop up in your browser. Test whether a message is legit by right-clicking the image. If you see the 'Save Picture As...' option, it's likely a trap. Close your browser.