Internet users have a slim to none chance at avoiding spyware because of the countless threats possible. Also making spyware difficult to avoid is its ability to install itself in your computer from numerous angles which forces you to find protection for your computer in several ways, none of which will guarantee complete protection. Downloading freeware and clicking on pop up ads are the most common ways a computer becomes infected with spyware but even beyond that users are invaded unknowingly by spyware just by surfing through seemingly secure sites.

Problems arise with more malicious applications such as spyware, Trojans, keyloggers, dialers and adware. These invasive programs are designed to record your personal information such as passwords, email and instant messages, credit card numbers and more. A dialer can use your internet connection to link to long distance connections or premium services, all of which will in turn run up a large bill on your internet connection. Other malicious spyware applications can invade your personal information and record computer usage habits, resulting in advertising bombardment or identity theft.

You are close to guaranteed to have spyware if you have never run a spyware specific scan or taken other measure to prevent the infections. Signals that your computer has been infected with spyware are not noticeable immediately upon their invasion but after running a while and having other spyware application build up, your computer will begin to show signs. Changes not authorized by you, the computer administrator, in your internet favorites list or browser homepage are sure signs of spyware. A constant stream of pop ups hints greatly towards spyware as does the sudden appearance of internet toolbars on your web pages. Slow computer functioning, pro longed system start ups and browser crashers are also strong signals that your computer has spyware.

Instead of avoiding the internet users can take precautions against spyware infection. Start protecting yourself by going into your system and turning off the install on demand option so that programs are not automatically installed, along with spyware, while you are online. To continue the ability to download wanted programs you can go through a few extra steps. Insecure or improper internet settings make your computer much more vulnerable to spyware and its consequences.

Running one or more spyware tool scan will rid your system of most spyware threat and purchasing or finding a free program that provides active spyware protection will enhance your chances of avoiding future infections. Before performing any spyware scans go into your computer and remove the internet cookies as well as the offline content files so the scan will run faster.

Spybot Search and Destroy and AdAware SE Personal are the two most renowned free spyware tools because of their full service at no cost. Any spyware tool you chose should be used on a regular basis so that spyware applications do not have an opening for invasion.