September 06, 2004
Special Warning - Spyware conflict with Windows XP SP2 security update.

Microsoft is warning Windows XP users to check for and remove any spyware that may be installed on computer systems before installing the Windows XP service pack 2 (SP2), security update.

Users that fail to remove spyware from their system before installing the SP2 security update run the risk of having their system freeze upon installation.

HL can confirm this warning as we have received 3 reports of conflicts since first reporting this issue yesterday.

At this time it isn't known which particular piece of spyware causes the conflict, however, as recommended by Microsoft, check for and remove all spyware before installing the Windows XP, SP2 security update.

A wide variety of spyware removers are available, however, not all spyware removers are created equal. Read ALL instructions before attempting to remove spyware.

If you're not sure what to do, contact a specialist in your local area with experience in the removal of spyware.