Current statistics show that nine out of the ten computers are infected with malware , spyware , adware , scumware, and other viruses. They come in the form of programs that will send any personal information about you or your current online activities to any third-party server. This is completed with you having any knowledge of it. Hackers then will use such information for their own benefit. Before you know it, someone is already stealing your identity.

As a user, it may be helpful if you can identify the different types of spyware programs that can cling into your PCs. This gives you an idea which programs you must avoid. Here are some of the following:

n-CASE. This is a spyware program that gives intended pop-up ads, which usually comes with freeware.

PurtyScan. These are pop-up ads that urge users to install them to locate and rub out pornographic pictures.

CoolWebSearch. This usually seizes or steals home pages, Internet Explorer settings, and Web searches.

Gator. This is also an adware program that shows banner ads based on your online activities. This generally comes with the Kazaa file-sharing program and other free software systems.

ISTba/AUpdate. These are usually toolbars that reportedly show pornography and pop-ups as well as steal or seize homepages and Internet searches.

Transponder. This spyware threat keeps track or spy websites visited and information supplied to online forms and gives targeted ads.

Internet Optimizer. This usually hijacks error pages and brings the user to their own site.

KeenValue. This is an adware program that gathers personal information and provides advertisements.

TIBS Dialer. This steals or hacks phone modems and usually redirects the user to pornographic sites with pay-by-the-minute phone sites.

Perfect Keylogger. Without your knowledge, this keeps track of all your keystrokes to include your personal information, passwords, clicks, and websites visited.

With these threats, you need the following precautionary measures in the war against spyware:

1. Install Microsoft security patches.
2. Never download or use freeware.
3. Disable Active-X download in your Internet Explorer.
4. Have at least one anti-spyware program although some experts suggest to have two.
5. For beginners, download one free spyware removal program like Spybot Search and Destroy or Ad-aware.

There are also available proactive spyware removal programs for you to choose from which are found in the market today. But before buying, make sure that the company selling it is reputable and possesses a veritable track record in the industry.