GhostSurf Platinum 2006
In the scary cyberworld of spyware, hackers, and zombie computers, the GhostSurf Platinum software application offers both security and peace of mind for the computer user. There are two impressive things about this Tenebril program. First, it works in the background without a lot of user intervention, and second, it accomplishes what it sets out to do — it lets you surf the Web anonymously, which reduces the risk of your computer being infiltrated by hackers and of your email address being targeted for spam.
Your computer is recognized by other computers and web servers by your IP (Internet Protocol) address and normally this information can be retrieved by any website you visit. GhostSurf scrambles that address whenever you are connected to the Internet which allows you, in effect, to surf without anyone being able to trace your footsteps. It also blocks web bugs, web beacons, and other tracking devices.
With GhostSurf you control the amount of privacy that you want. You can block personal information, encrypt data, and block Internet traces. For added security you can even route your data through anonymous hubs. In effect, you can prevent everyone, including your own ISP, from seeing what you are doing while you are on the Internet. While this sounds complicated, the program's simple interface lets you make your choices quite easily.
GhostSurf has several modules. The TracksCleaner lets you erase your Web history, cache, clipboard, cookies, and temporary files. It uses Department of Defense standards to do this so that the information cannot be retrieved once it is deleted. The SpyCatcher module is a product that removes spyware, adware, and Trojan files. I love the fact that it updates itself so you don't have to worry about the latest spyware. The GhostSurf AdAmor eliminates a large variety of aggravating advertising including pop-ups, flashing text, and animated images. There is even a Personal Data Vault which is a password-protected, encrypted folder for your confidential documents.
If you choose the highest level of security, you can grant any website an exclusion, so you can allow your online banking site or favorite online store to recognize you. In fact, the GhostSurf program is smart enough to pretty accurately pre-choose several websites for exclusion. This makes it easier for the novice user, but in the end, the user can have full control over which websites are allowed to recognize them.
GhostSurf also lets you to see the number of blocked cookies, invisible requests, pop-up ads, and other items that were blocked. If you look at these simple stats you will start to understand the need for such a program. This software works with all Web browsers and supports anonymous instant messaging, Internet Relay Chat (IRC) and news feeds. Those who are using older Windows operating systems will be glad to know that it works with Windows 95, 98, ME, and NT, as well as Windows 2000 and Windows XP.
The purchase price for GhostSurf Platinum is $49.95. Like anti-virus programs, after the first year there is a yearly renewal fee of $24.95 which covers product updates, spyware definition updates, and technical support. Considering the scope of the GhostSurf product, the price is quite reasonable. It's a program that some will use to simply hide their surfing habits, but most will use it to create a more secure online environment to keep hackers and spying eyes at bay.
Specifications
Product: GhostSurf
Platinum 2006
Manufacturer: Tenebril
Price: $49.95 purchase, with $24.95 subsequent yearly subscription
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