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How To Avoid Becoming A Victim of Identity Theft
With identity theft statistics currently at an all time high,
and climbing, it just makes sense that we should all be doing
everything we can to protect ourselves.
One of the most prevalent yet overlooked ways your personal
information and passwords may be being compromised is through the
presence of Spyware on your computer.
Note these very disturbing Facts about Spyware and Identity
Theft:
- 27.3 million Americans have been victims of identity theft
in the last five years, including 9.91 million people or 4.6% of
the population in the last year alone.
- Spyware infects 91% of all computers. That equates to an
alarming 9 out of 10 computers!
Stop thinking Identity Theft can't happen to you. It can.
Spyware is without doubt the most prevalent threat to online
computer privacy and security.
You maybe wondering, exactly what is Spyware?
Spyware applications are programs and files that hide on your
PC's hard drive without your direct knowledge. They allow hackers
and advertising companies to track your every move, both online
and even when you work offline.
Tracking the websites you visit, the items that you buy
online, the emails you send and receive, your Instant Message
dialog, and worst of all they can even record your credit card
number, personal identification numbers, and all of your
passwords.
If you use dial-up to connect to the Internet then spyware can
be used to bill 900 numbers to your telephone bill.
Spyware allows hackers to take control of your browser and
alter your computer system files.
These computer parasites slow down your Internet connection by
inundating you with unwanted Spyware pop-up ads.
This is just a short list of the harm that Spyware can
cause.
Note: Spyware and Adware cannot be detected by anti-virus and
firewall software.
Have you noticed your computer running slower than ever?
The reason for that may have to do with online advertisers
adding Spyware, or Adware to your computer without your
knowledge.
What is Adware?
Adware works very much like Spyware.
Adware is software that will show you popup ads over and over.
These files can also be extremely dangerous to your PC and could
cause major problems with your Computer.
If you're still wondering why you should be concerned about
adware or spyware, consider this reality.
Through the use of adware and spyware your passwords, credit
card numbers and other personal information could end up in the
wrong hands.
In an attempt to provide some much-needed information on the
subject of spyware, adware and identity theft I've compiled a
Special Report called Spyware! How To Get and Stay Safe.
The report is in PDF format and can be had for the asking by
visiting the following URL: http://www.easyhow-to.com/identity-theft-avoidance.htm
Clyde Dennis, a.k.a. "Mr. How-To", is Editor at EASYHow-To
Publications and has been contributing articles that help people
make their lives better since 1999. At his web site, The "How To"
Library, you'll find a collection of the latest tools, tips, and
information you need to help you get things done. For more
information visit http://www.EASYHow-To.com
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