A closer look at Trend Micro HijackThis 2.0.2

HijackThis is a tiny program helps you get rid of persistent spyware by examining vulnerable or suspect parts of your system, such as browser helper objects and certain types of Registry keys.

Welcome screen:

Going from left to right, you have the option to scan your computer, after which you can save the log and fix the selected items. The scan will probably generate a log of dozens of items, most of which are just customizations.

Be careful! Don’t select items and hit the Fix Checked button unless you’re sure you’re dealing with malware. To get further information about the item, press the Info on Selected Item button or, better yet – search the Web for that item name (since the the Info on Selected Item option tells you why the entry is suspicious, but not if it really IS malware):

Saving the log creates a text document you can post forums.

You can find some useful tools in the Configuration window:

Trend Micro HijackThis is a very simple tool, with a somewhat limited range of options and a bare interface. It does not target specific programs and URLs, only the methods used by hijackers to force you onto their sites. Unless you’re sure about what you’re doing, you always should consult with knowledgeable folks before deleting anything.