SpyHunter (software)


SpyHunter is an anti-spyware computer program for the Microsoft Windows operating system. It is designed to remove malware, such as trojan horses, computer worms, rootkits, and other malicious software.

Details

SpyHunter is currently at version 5, and receives daily definition updates. SpyHunter has a free version, which allows the user to scan their computer. Purchase is required to remove found malware.
In the paid version, the user is able to receive support from a built-in HelpDesk.

Critical reception

In February 2016, Enigma Software filed a lawsuit against Bleeping Computer, a computer support website. It alleged that the latter engaged in a smear campaign with the purpose of driving potential customers away from SpyHunter to affiliate competing products. In turn, Bleeping Computer filed a lawsuit against Enigma Software also for an alleged smear campaign. In March 2017, Enigma Software announced in a press release that a settlement had been reached in the lawsuit against Bleeping Computer, and that both cases would be dismissed.
In October 2016, Enigma Software filed a lawsuit against popular security software vendor, Malwarebytes, for anti-competitive behavior. The lawsuit arose after Malwarebytes' software began targeting SpyHunter as a potentially unwanted program. On November 7, 2017, Enigma's case was dismissed by the US District Court. Engima appealed to the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit and the court reversed the lower court's decision. A panel of judges voted 2-1 that, "We hold that the phrase "otherwise objectionable" does not include software that the provider finds objectionable for anti-competitive reasons."