Let’s face it….Spyware is here to stay. In fact, it’s so commonplace these days that you’d think everyone would install spyware protection as soon as they buy their computers, right? Wrong. In fact, one of the number one complaints among people who browse the web is how easily they seem to pick up spyware, malware like BHO.alm, and Trojan horses. With a good anti-spyware program, you can eliminate the threats. However, you should also know how to prevent spyware if your computer in not protected.

Beware of fake anti-spyware and virus protection software. Have you ever installed anti-spyware protection software only to discover that your problems got worse instead of better? If this has ever happened to you, chances are that you’ve been duped by a fake program designed to lure you into a spyware ambush.

Stay away from sites that peddle illegal software. Software piracy sites are basically traps to get you to download more software—with an added malware, spyware, or Trojan horse bonus.

Don’t assume that e-mail is safe, just because it comes from someone you know. E-mail that contains links could very well put you one click away from spyware infection. If you receive an e-mail and are tempted to click on the underlined blue words on the screen, don’t. You might download malicious spyware without even knowing it.

Never underestimate the destructive power of a screensaver. Don’t take chances on screensaver downloads. These are usually tools for tracking your behavior, recording your keystrokes, and gathering your browsing habits so that advertisers can send targeted ads to you.

If an advertisement is a pop-up or pop-under, don’t click on it. These “ads” are designed to install spyware, malware, and viruses into your computer. As long as you use browsers with pop-up blockers, you can keep your computer spyware free.

When it comes to keeping dirty spyware out of your computer, the only sure thing is to use a program like SpyZooka to keep it clean. With a little preventive maintenance, you won’t have to spend all day eliminating spyware. You’ll know that spyware infection is one less thing that you’ll have to worry about.