These types of programs can infect your PC when you download free software/programs, so one efficient way to avoid spyware is by keeping your system clear of excess stuff. If you really do not need that free fishbowl screen-saver, restrain yourself and stick to the ones you already have on your computer.

Or, better yet, opt for a high-quality screen-saver that costs a little extra money but will save you a whole lot of frustration in the long run. Also, staying away from free-software sites altogether is useful because even if you do not download anything, many sites will attach a cookie to your browser once you visit the website that will be used to track your browsing online. Avoid questionable sites and you will avoid this type of malicious spyware.

A good antispyware software application will help tremendously. A little investment in some quality anti-spyware will save you hours (and probably several dollars) down the line.

Avoid downloading files from unknown sources as well. For example, a spyware software can be down-loaded via an e-greeting, email, by clicking a pop-up, or through other various sources. To avoid getting infected via a pop-up, don’t click anywhere on the pop-up window pane. Instead, click the x located in the right corner of the window to entirely close the pop-up. If there’s no way to close the pop-up, close your browser and disconnect from the Internet.

Another possible source of spyware is a toolbar. Most toolbars are set up to track your browsing locations and habits and search queries in order to create targeted ads to display to you. Toolbars can create pop-ups and even display dynamic advertisements in the toolbar itself that are based on your browsing interests, as suggested by your online use. In fact, it may seem as if the sites you go to generate the pop-ups you see, but more often these advertisements are produced by the hidden spyware or adware already on your computer.