Why should I be concerned about spyware or adware?

Passwords, credit card details and other personal information could end up in wrong hands.

Your computer could get unwanted viruses, worms or even Trojan.

You would receive unwanted emails.

Your computer could be used by malicious operators to do damage not only your own computer, but to other computer users too.

How did I get spyware on my computer and how do I eliminate it?

It usually happens when you visit a web site, and are prompted to download something that is said to be "necessary" to view or use features of that web site. Also, you might want or download a program that has some nice features, but also installs program code that can send information out without your knowledge.

"By tracking and publicizing growth of spyware, we can better educate consumers of its risks and encourage them to take steps to protect themselves and their families while online," said Christine Stevenson of Webroot, which conducted scans.

People concerned about what might be lurking on their machine can download software such as popular ZoneAlarm Pro, Pest Patrol, and Spybot to disinfect their computer.

If you use material, please send us a note

so we can take a look. Thanks.

Step #2: Clean up your Hard Disk Once spyware is removed, you need to clean up temporary and unwanted files from your hard disk. To do this on your windows PC, select start option in lower left hand corner of your computer screen. Then, select program option. Under program option, select “Accessories”. Under “Accessories” option, select “System Tools”. From System Tools option, select “Disk Cleanup”.

Select drive you want to clean from pull-down menu and select OK. Usually, this is Drive C. If you have more than one hard drive, select one at a time. This program will then scan your computer for files that could be erased from your computer. You can safely erase all temporary and Recycle Bin files. You can also check box of any other files you want program to erase.

Step #3: Defrag your Hard Disk Once all spyware and temporary files are removed, you need to defrag your hard disk. This process simply rewrites your computer files so they are no longer scattered all over your hard disk, but are written in same location for quick sequential access.

To defrag your hard disk on your windows PC, select start option in lower left hand corner of your computer screen. Then, select program option. Under program option, select “Accessories”. Under “Accessories” option, select “System Tools”. From System Tools option, select “Disk Defragmenter”. First, select hard drive from your computer. Usually, this is Drive C. However, many computers have multiple hard drives. Select one at a time.

You can select “Analyze” to have program check out hard drive and see if it needs to be defragged. The program will prompt you at completion of its analysis. Use defragment option as prompted.

Note: If you’ve never used this option before, I would recommend that you select defragment option.

Once, you’ve completed these three steps, your computer and hard disk should be able to operate at maximum performance. Don’t forget to repeat these steps at least once a month or whenever you notice a change in your computer’s performance.