by Cynthia Blake
Over the past 12 months, spyware removal has become the number one priority for IT professionals around the world.

Just a few years ago, spyware was only a minor threat. However, dramatic increases in the number of spyware programs in existence has elevated spyware as the number one risk to computers and databases.

A recent poll by The Computer Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) shows that spyware is the top concern of 55% of the 1,070 businesses surveyed. Almost all of them reported that spyware has definitely increased dramatically in the last year alone.

According to ComputerWeekly.com, the Sans Institute reports that almost 33% of websites are infected with malware that downloads itself onto computers without user knowledge.

Another survey reported that almost 47% of businesses that relied on the internet for parts of their commerce had suffered spyware-related losses.

The greatest risks to spyware include downloads and browser use. The most vulnerable browser to spyware infection is actually Internet Explorer. Although Microsoft has improved their browser considerably with version 7, the fact remains that Internet Explorer’s close relationship to the windows operating system leaves users highly vulnerable to malware attacks. Prudent users are now switching to alternative browsers such as Mozilla’s Firefox, which are more stable and secure, and do not share an intimate connection with the users operating system.

User awareness of virus protection has become much better over the past few years, including the now widespread knowledge that it is generally bad to download unknown emails and their attachments. However, user awareness of spyware is not widespread yet. Many do not realize that spyware can install itself on a computer just by visiting a website.

Spyware removal should now be a key priority for anyone using the internet, since spyware has become sophisticated enough to steal user information such as credit card numbers and passwords.

The best spyware removal programs are those from reputable companies. Free spyware removal programs should be avoided due to the fact that many malware programs are disguised as “free” spyware removal programs.

Users should take action to protect themselves and their identities by downloading and using a reputable, well-reviewed anti spyware software program. Please visit http://www.thewisesurfer.com for reviews and recommended spyware removal programs.

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