In 2004, UK Government brought in legislation to discourage spammers but penalties are derisory compared to those introduced by other countries. This has had unfortunate effect of making UK a prime target for international spammers. It is estimated that by end of 2005, 80% of all UKJ e-mails will be spam.

There are no ways to avoid it completely that we know of but you can take steps to minimise it. Common Sense Tips to Reduce SPAM Never visit web sites advertised by Spam mail

If you do, never, NEVER buy anything

Do not reply to e-mail or click an unsubscribe link - doing so merely confirms that your e-mail address is active and that message has been read.

Delete Spam messages immediately

If certain domains are particularly bothering you report them to your ISP

by Dan Housley

What is Shareware? Shareware is software that you can try before you buy; shareware is a kind of marketing method for software. Software developers post trial versions of their software on websites. Consumers can then download trial version to their computer and evaluate it. If consumer likes software they can purchase it. Shareware is also called try before you buy.

Today almost every big software company including Microsoft, Winzip, and AOL use trial versions or a form of shareware to market their software.

Why is shareware better than any other marketing method? Shareware is a good way to market software. It allows consumers to evaluate an application prior to making a purchase decision. They can easily determine if it meets their business or personal needs, which usually results to a satisfied customer. In addition because shareware companies are often small they can provide personalized service that is not found in larger companies. Shareware also allows for instant gratification, there is no need to wait for a shipment. Consumers can download and use software immediately.

Freeware vs. Shareware. As you know shareware is a marketing method for software. Freeware is also a way of marketing software. However, freeware is free so developer does not ever request any money. Shareware is free to distribute but cannot be used for an unlimited amount of time, unless developer is paid. Freeware can be used an unlimited amount of time and can be freely distributed; payment is not required. Many developers use freeware to draw attention to their shareware applications.

What is software piracy? There are several kinds of software piracy. One kind of software piracy is hacking into software and disabling copy protection. Software pirates then distribute or sell hacked software. The developer does not receive any money for software hacker distributed. This is an infringement on developer's copyright.