StopZilla - Popup Blocking Frequently Asked Questions
I just downloaded STOPzilla and installed it and it's not blocking any popups!
First, make sure you've restarted your computer after installing STOPzilla. After your computer has restarted, make sure there are no open Internet Explorer browsers. Next, launch STOPzilla by double-clicking on the STOPzilla desktop icon. You should be good to go.
Check to see if you're using IE 5.0 - From an open IE browser window, click on "Help" and then "About Internet Explorer". If you're running IE 5.0 - are you ready for this? You HAVE to upgrade! IE 5.0 is bug ridden and if you want STOPzilla to kill popups - actually, if you want even a chance at popup free surfing... it's time for IE 6.0. Here's the kicker - this problem is isolated to IE 5.0. All other versions (IE 4.0 & up, 5.0.1 & up, and 6.0 & up) are all fine.
If STOPzilla is still not blocking, open up Internet Explorer(IE 6.0 only), click on "Tools" on the top of the IE window. Next, Click on the "Advanced" tab. Now scroll down until you find "Enable third party browser extensions". Make sure that it's checked. If it's already checked, click on the "Restore Defaults" button located on the bottom of that window. Click OK. Shut down all IE windows. Now open IE and give STOPzilla a run.
What is the 'BLACK LIST'?
The STOPzilla BLACK LIST is a list that automatically updates every time a popup is detected or a piece of Adware/Spyware has been detected and quarantined.
You can remove selected items from the list or clear the entire list by using the buttons provided on the bottom of the BLACK LIST window. Keep in mind that you may clear your BLACK LIST at any time without effecting STOPzilla's performance in any way. The BLACK LIST is simply a way for you to see what STOPzilla has been up to - the BLACK LIST does not need to have any entries in it for STOPzilla to work.
Why are allowed Popups added to the BLACK LIST?
STOPzilla learns as you surf. If you'll notice, right next to each listing in the BLACK LIST is a 'Status Indicator' - this indictor will show a small green icon (representing an allowed Popup) or a small red icon (representing a blocked pop-up). Right clicking a selection in the BLACK LIST will give you the ability to 'ALLOW' a blocked pop-up, or 'BLOCK' an allowed pop-up.
Does the BLACK LIST have to be visible for STOPzilla to work?
No. STOPzilla is working as long as the System Tray icon (that's the little Sz on the bottom right hand corner of your screen) displays a red S. When the S is green, STOPzilla is in 'SLEEP' or 'ALLOW' mode. Remember, to configure STOPzilla to your liking, click your right mouse button over the System Tray icon and select 'Tools' -> 'Advanced Options.'
What if I've accidentally blocked a Popup that I actually wanted to see?
Really?!?! Just kidding! Open the BLACK LIST, select the URL that you accidentally blocked by clicking on it, right-click and select 'Allow'. Now refresh the page that initiated the Popup - the Popup should now be visible.
Some popups are still getting through. Is STOPzilla working?
Unfortunately we're in a constant battle. We figure out how to get STOPzilla to block - they figure out how not to get blocked. In the end STOPzilla will win, and all will be good in the world. It's also a good idea to come back to STOPzilla.com and check for updates - make sure you've always got the latest version of STOPzilla installed. The latest version of STOPzilla is v4.4.1.0 and was released on 09.22.06 - Click here to download it now.
Can I manually add a Popup to the BLACK LIST?
YES! If a popup makes it through, right click on the title bar of the popup and select 'Block this popup' form the menu - this will add it right to the BLACK LIST and you'll never have to deal with seeing that popup again! ;)