Today, the Internet can be a scary place. With viruses, worms, Trojans and the like, the Internet can be dangerous for a computer user. Yet, did you know that there are programs that install themselves on your computer and watch everything you do? Once installed these programs will bombard you with advertisements based on what it is that you view on the Internet. Such programs are called spyware and they can not only cause your computer to run more slowly, but sometimes can significantly damage your it.

Spyware can be a complete hassle. The installation of spyware happens without the computer user even knowing and suddenly the user finds that their Internet browser has taken on a life of its own and has been hijacked by a spyware program. Other spyware programs can result in a significant number of pop-ups appearing on a computer. Likewise, some spyware programs will overload an individual's mailbox with junk mail and spam based on the users Internet surfing behavior. Finally, some spyware programs can steal your personal banking and credit card information and this can lead to identity theft!

Nevertheless, there is help. There are spyware removal tools available on the Internet that can help you get rid of spyware problems. What's more, spyware software applications can scan both fixed and removable drives on your computer, scan your computer memory, and scan your windows registry to find the nasty spyware programs on your computer. What's more, spyware removal software can help you detect different variants of malware and help you quarantine and remove such applications.

Truly, the advantages of having a spyware removal program are numerous. You can quickly and easily remove behavior-monitoring software, protect your privacy while surfing the Internet, you can remove key logging programs that slow down the efficiency of your computer, and you can regularly update the program to remove new spyware applications that are frequently created.

Many spyware removal programs are available on the Internet for free. Further some come bundled with anti virus software - yet another must for every computer user. Along with the spyware removal and the anti virus applications, users will be pleased to find that they are also provided with firewall applications for additional protection while using the Internet.

To avoid exposing your computer to spyware, you need to be careful about what you download. Many spyware programs are hidden and pose as something which you need. For instance, don't be surprised if you download something off the Internet only to find that you suddenly have spyware on your computer. Spyware will trick you and then install itself and by the time you realize it is on your computer, it is already too late. Therefore, spyware removal programs run on a daily basis will help you eliminate many of the problems and you should install such a program the minute you begin using the Internet. In the end, your privacy is what matters and having spyware on your computer jeopardizes that privacy.

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Michael Russell
Your Independent guide to Spyware
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