If you are re-directed to a non-Thomas website when logging into our InfoNet or other Thomas College web pages:

This is caused by a spyware/adware program that is installed on your computer, called CoolWebSearch, or one of its many variants.

Spyware and adware applications running on your computer can cause your computer to do many different things without your knowledge. These types of programs can re-direct your web browser to other sites, including sites containing adult content. They can also display "pop-up" advertisements on your screen, track what web-sites you visit, and what you purchase online, etc. It is best to remove this software from your computer.

Ad-Aware is a popular application for removing common spyware and adware applications from your computer for you. It is available for free for personal use. For more information about Ad-Aware, please see http://www.lavasoftusa.com/software/adaware/.

1. To install Ad-Aware click on the following link: ftp://ftp.thomas.edu/winxp/utils/Ad-Aware/aaw6.exe) to download the program. Click Open to run the installation program. (NOTE: If this download does not work for you, you can also download Ad-Aware from the LavaSoft web site)
2. Once you have downloaded Ad-Aware, run through the setup process, clicking next until finished.
3. Once you have installed Ad-Aware, start the program by clicking Start, All Programs, Lavasoft Ad-Aware 6, Ad-Aware 6.
4. Update the Ad-Aware program by clicking the "Update Now" link.
5. After updating, Scan your computer for spyware and adware programs by clicking the Start button.
6. After several minutes, you will be told which programs were found and given an option to remove them.
7. Remove any spyware and adware programs that it finds.