What is spyware? Simply put, if you have ever downloaded any of the following onto your computer, there is over a 90% chance that your computer has been infected.

They are as follows: Screensavers, Music, Games, Movies, and Pictures.

Spyware programs are files that hide on your PC's hard drive without your knowledge. These programs can allow advertising companies to track your every move. It also allows hackers to hijack your computer and use it for various illegal activities, without your knowledge. Even worse, they could get access to sensitive files that are stored on your computer, such as banking information, passwords, and credit card information. Identity theft can occur when these events take place. If your PC has been used for any kind of illegal activity without your knowledge, it will be up to you to prove your innocence.

Your computer can also crash as a result of spyware and adware programs. If you have ever noticed any of the following symptoms, it is most likely the result of spyware on your PC. Excessive pop-ups that start suddenly. Your PC starts to function very slowly. Strange icons that suddenly appear on your desktop or start up menu. Your homepage being switched for another. When at rest, your mouse cursor starts to float across the page. Your PC freezes up frequently and displays a lot of error codes.

These symptoms are just the beginning. They will get worse, and eventually your PC will crash.

Obtaining a good spyware removal program is a must. Don't think that programs like Mcaffee and Norton are enough, as they aren't. Those programs are excellent for protecting yourself from viruses and spam, but are lacking in the spyware and adware arena. I personally use Mcaffee Security Suite and thought I was well protected until I did a free scan from a spyware program. I was shocked to find that I had over 300 files embedded into my hard drive from spyware and adware. I immediately purchased the product, did a complete scan, and found even more unwanted programs on my PC.

With the push of a button, I was able to delete these files forever. I now have it set up on a schedule to do a full scan every day at 4 am, plus it's always running in the background while I am using my computer and will pick up any unwanted programs and inform me as they occur, in real time, before they are installed on my PC. This is very important. Most of the spyware removal software does an excellent job on other malicious codes from being installed on your PC. Things like adware, malware, worms, trojans, and viruses will also be picked up by your software and will work well with your Mcaffee , Norton, or other software programs you are currently using.

With the right software in place, you can prevent any harm from coming to your PC. If your surfing habits include any of the activities previously mentioned, it is imperative that you obtain a good spyware and adware removal program and use it frequently. If you surf the Internet a lot, I would recommend that you run a scan every few days, or put it on a daily schedule to perform as scan as you are sleeping. Doing so will ensure that your PC will continue to function properly for a long time. Protect your investment and obtain a high quality spyware removal program soon.

David Dorrough is a retired educator, having taught at several leading universities. Today, he is active as a free lance writer and is also a Google Adsense Publisher. For more information on spyware, visit the following sites: www.what-spyware.com and also www.security.consumers-choice.net

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