Viruses and spyware can be destructive and frustrating. No matter how many precautions you take, you’ll have to deal with virus and spyware removal eventually, and there are some surprisingly easy steps you can take yourself before you need to try more drastic measures.
If your computer is slow, locks up periodically, or loses files or other forms of data, then it could be infected with a virus. This is a program that is loaded onto a computer without the user’s knowledge or permission. It will replicate itself once it has “infected” your computer and will spread throughout the computer. It usually starts out attached to another program.
Spyware also is loaded onto your computer without permission, but an infected computer may not show overt signs of being infected. This is because the spyware’s purpose is to steal information from your computer and transmit it online. This can include passwords or credit card information. Many spyware programs bring viruses with them.
When you suspect that your computer has been infected with a virus or spyware, it is important to take care of the problem right away to prevent further damage to your computer or more theft of your personal information.





