Spyware can be more than annoying. Poorly created­ spyware can interfere with other programs and can even cause system failure. Privacy issues are an issue as well.

This type of software is often installed without a user's knowledge or consent and often can not be un-installed without special software. When spyware creators use tricks and deception to install unwanted software, trust is over.

The best defense against a spyware attack is common sense. Always be aware when you download software from the Internet. Do no install software from questionable websites that you don't know if you can trust. And always be sure to read through the download agreement thoroughly. Sometimes the license will disclose that the spyware is installed along with the legitimate program, but the creators are counting on the fact that no one ever reads the agreement anyway.

Look for a guarantee that the software is free from spyware. This won't give you 100% protection, but it's a good step towards trust for a website.

What are the signs of a spyware infection anyway? Strange pop-up advertising; a new homepage when you log on; new tool-bars that you didn't install or your PC; or your computer is responding slowly or rebooting randomly without warning -- just to name a few.

If your computer system does happen to get hit with a spyware attack, all is not lost. There are many different antispyware software programs made for getting rid of it. These software applications have a database of known spyware that gets updated regularly as new threats are found. The software will scan your computer to see if anything from the database is installed on it.

Be careful, and good luck.