If you think you have spyware on your computer you can usually recognize the signs without the "assistance" of a rogue anti-spyware program. For example, too much spyware will bog down the speed of your PC and cause your computer to run slower than normal. You'll probably be overrun by excess pop-ups and phony alert messages. Also, your homepage and list of favorite sites may suddenly change and reappear even after restoring the your default settings. Other things to look out for include:

• A strange, new browser toolbar appears without your consent, which is hard or impossible to remove
  
• Every time you do an online search, the results are redirected to a strange search engine
  
• Unexplained 900 number calls begin appearing on your phone bill statement
  
• Any antispyware or security programs you currently have installed stop working correctly or at all
  
• Your modem's send and receive lights blink continuously even when you are not doing anything online
  

If you think you might have spyware on your PC, the best way to avoid scammers is to stick with a well-known, expert-recommended antispyware/adware removal software program. Some fast research will give you all the info you need to know about the product. There are lots of excellent anti-spyware programs available on the market that can help you avoid the troubles associated with spyware and adware.