Unfortunately, spyware has become much more malicious in recent years and if you don't take the proper steps to remove it from your computer and keep it off, you could very well become the next victim of identity theft.



The FTC estimates that over 9 million people fall victim to identity theft each year and the number is continually growing. Why? The answer could be summed up in one word - spyware.

Here are a couple more stats that will blow your mind:

There are now over 6.5 billion internet users and industry experts estimate that over 90% of them will get infected with spyware. This is because hackers have recognized and are capitalizing on a disturbing trend - over 80% of those users are not running antispyware or antivirus software on their computer.

What this means is that it has become relatively easy for hackers to not only find security exploits, but often they don't have to because there is nothing running on a user's computer to identify and stop any type of spyware or malicious software from installing itself onto your computer. What happens after the software is installed is what you should be terrified of.

While there are a large number of spyware and adware programs that are nothing more than a nuisance, there is also a growing number of malicious spyware that is written for one purpose and one purpose only - to log your keystrokes, monitor your activity and ultimately to steal your identity.

Unfortunately, Internet users are not properly educated on the risks of spyware and viruses and most believe that they can get away without using any type of antispyware or antivirus software. But the reality is that spending a mere $30 now to protect yourself can ultimately end up saving you thousands of dollars in legal and consultant fees when you are trying to get your identity back after it has been stolen.

You also need to be aware that there is software out there that claims to be antispyware software, but in reality the software is nothing more than a spyware installer and actually will download and install more spyware onto your computer. To protect yourself from these types of situations, make sure that you do some additional research on the vendor and software before making a purchase or downloading it. Also, a good rule to follow is to find a company that has earned a reputation in the industry though various awards or recognition.

So if to this point you have not been worried about getting a spyware infection, you should be. Spyware has become alarmingly more malicious in recent years and has become the top method for hackers to steal your identity. It is because of this that you'll want to take the necessary steps to protect yourself when online, and most importantly that means using reputable and effective antispyware software.