by 
The Curious Bag
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Since the Internet became more popular in the late '80s and early '90s, a number of threats have become apparent. If you don't yet have a firewall, antivirus and anti-spyware programs installed on your computer, now may be the time to take this important step.
The Problem
Computer viruses can disable or take control of a user's computer. Spyware is a concern because it compromises the user's privacy--these programs track the behaviors of the user while online.
Viruses
According to Symantec, there are over a million known computer viruses in existence. IBM's David M. Chess says that about 30 of these viruses are responsible for the majority of computer infections.
Spyware
The computers of more than 55 percent of Internet users have been infected with spyware. In many cases, the spyware goes undetected for long periods of time.
Cost
According to Aladdin Knowledge Systems, malware (viruses) cost businesses worldwide about $170 billion to $200 billion per year. These businesses are also concerned about identifying and eliminating spyware, which threatens the security of proprietary business information,
Websites
Some malicious websites are able to download viruses and spyware to a user's computer through videos, wallpapers and other seemingly safe programs. Because of this, all Internet visitors should install a reliable firewall and antivirus program to scan and prevent risky downloads.
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