You've heard all kinds of terrible things about it, but just what IS it - and how does it get on your computer in the first place?

Spyware is a real pain in the arse, to put it bluntly. It bogs down your computer's memory, causes you to be spammed to death with pop-up ads, and tracks everywhere you go while you surf the web! Worst of all, 99% of all spyware downloads itself to your computer without your knowledge - or your consent.

Can they do that? Yes, unfortunately, they can - but you don't have to sit back while your computer is destroyed with malicious software. Spyware scanners and removal programs are a must on any computer that gets online.

But, first, let's talk a little more about spyware - and what it truly is.

Broadbandinfo.com makes things a little clearer:

Spyware