Spyware: This is an all-inclusive term that includes the majority of malware like trojans (”Trojan Horses”), adware, pop up ads, modified cookies and key-loggers, to name a few. Spyware is generally constructed to look over your online activity and reveal flaws in security. Hackers have come up with complicated tools like key-loggers that can record every key that is typed — passwords, bank data and email can all be revealed with this software.

Stop Spyware: Look for spyware-combating software that has been endorsed by a reliable source like Microsoft.

Identity Theft: Hackers are able to use various methods to steal information about you. Once the information is accessed, it will make it easy for them to purchase items online with your credit card data, create fake documents, and intercept your paycheck. This issue is addressed in most high quality Internet security software.

Stop Identity Theft: Be aware of who you are conducting purchase transactions with. Make certain that a legitimate SSL certificate is located on any page where you will enter information without the presence of error or warning icons appearing in your browser. Safe pages start with ‘https:’ instead of ‘http:’.

Spam: Spam email (email you did not sign up for) can contain malicious links that can do all sorts of things, including infecting your computer with a virus, introducing spyware, as well as attracting additional spam. Having an effective online spam filter is generally a wise choice. Utilizing Internet security software as well as a certain amount of common sense will help you avoid having your inbox swamped with spam.

Avoid SPAM: Avoiding too much spam mail can be achieved by using Internet security software and, of course, common sense. If you haven’t subscribed to an email, don’t “unsubscribe” from it. This informs that spammer that you are an actual person and your spam can actually double or triple instantly if you click on the “unsubscribe” link.

Phishing: Phishing is associated with identity theft as described above, and presents a real threat to online security. This operates by delivering an email message posing as a reliable site like PayPal or even your own bank. The links take you to a fraudulent website that poses as the legitimate site. Once you enter your personal details, a hacker exploits this to purchase things online using your identity or your cash.

Prevent Phishing: Don’t ever click onto a link that appears “fishy” in any way. Make certain that you know what the “.com” is attached to. The URL should not “begin” with the name you expect but should actually “end” with it instead. For example, Bank of America: the URL should appear like http://somesubdomain.bankofamerica.com, however a Phishing link may appear like http://bankofamerica.myphishingdomain.com. A phishing filter is found on Internet Explorer that can raise a red flag regarding suspected phishing sites.