Spyware is a modern scourge that's easily among the top 5 computer security concerns. Some forms that actually spy on you live up to the name "spyware", while others can infect almost like viruses; hijacking your browser and causing havoc on your computer.

Spyware is here to stay, which means you must regularly scan for spyware in addition to vigilance and taking normal internet safety precautions.

There are three important steps to avoiding spyware:

1. Install and Run an Anti-Spyware Program - The choices are endless, but popular anti-spyware tools which just happen to be free include Windows Defender, which may already be installed on your newer versions of Windows; Spybot Search and Destroy, which is a common and highly regarded recommendation, and Lavasoft's Adaware, which is free for personal home use. Download one of these programs and install it as soon as possible.

2. Update the Spyware Database - After downloading anti-spyware software, you should start by updating the database of spyware definitions that come with the installation. New spyware is created daily and your programs need to have the most current updates to remain effective. Most programs have update functions that will locate and install the latest databases automatically; make sure that this feature is enabled.

3. Run Regular Scans - Many anti-spyware programs will work automatically, which means once installed it goes to work checking your computer and will perform a complete scan daily. However, for those programs that don't have a regular scan as the default, you need to make sure to go in and set up a daily scan schedule so that the anti-spyware tool you've selected scans regularly.

Additional Notes

Many anti-spyware packages have advanced protection that can prevent spyware from installing. These programs may lock your browser home page so that you must approve any change, or simply not allow it to be changed. Some packages may also lock the "hosts" file - a common spyware target. These protections are valuable and should be turned on.

It's unfortunate, but there really is no single "best" anti-spyware program. Each operates differently and will catch some things others may miss. The best option is to select one to run as recommended, and perhaps have others "on call" for those times when spyware makes it past.