- First of all don't be paranoid, just be careful.

- Much of

spyware

is delivered via email as attachments.

- Those who distribute spyware try to get you to open the attachment by saying it's something appealing.

- Never open attachments from anyone you don't know.

- Even if you know the sender if the email, don't open the email if the text sounds odd.

- Email addresses can be "spoofed" so the email from "Bob" may not be from him at all.

- You can also get

spyware

from visiting sites that deal with pirated software.

- Pornography sites are also places where you can get infected.

- Don't be afraid, but be cautious when dealing with attachments.

- Often you agree to installing spyware by not carefully reading what's on the screen.

- You can get infected by not paying attention when you click on pop-ups.

- Some sites will

install spyware

as soon as you arrive without needing to click on anything.

- What are some signs that you may be infected with spyware?

• A new toolbar appears in your browser.


• Your "home" page changes.


• Your default search engine changes.


• A noticeable decrease in your computers performance.


• Your system seems more unstable and prone to freezing.


• An excessive number of pop-up windows.


• Odd dialog boxes appearing.