What is spyware? Spyware is software that monitors the habits of a computer (user) and sends or stores this information. There are exceptions to these, but for the most part, the following are generally correct:

-The information that is collected by spyware are your web surfing habits.

-This information is sent to the 'company.'

-The 'company' uses this information to attempt to target advertising that best suits the users surfing habits. i.e. someone who regularly visits sites pertaining to cars might find that 'somehow' ads they receive are about cars.

Where does spyware come from? Spyware can come from numerous places. Two of the most likely places are, first, from file sharing applications. One example is Kazaa. Spyware can (and usually is) bundled into the installer. Someone who didn't read the agreement before clicking 'I accept' would have not idea that programs other than Kazaa have been installed. A second place someone might get spyware is from websites. It's not uncommon for visitors to sites that are of questionable integrity to end up with some spyware installed without them even being aware of it.

How can I avoid spyware? People can at least limit spyware by using a bit of good old common sense. Some people just can resist installing anything and everything that comes their way. Staying away from illegal software and porn sites is also a good idea. (I know. I had to say it anyway.)

Good news! Kinda. Once the damage is done, there is help out there for people with spyware issues. Spyware removers:

Spybot - Visit their site and download - A personal favorite. Be sure once you've installed it to run the updating feature for best results.

Adaware - Visit their site and download - Many people swear by Adaware. I prefer Spybot, but to each his or her own.

There are probably more spyware removers out there, but between those two, you should probably never need another.