How effective spam is and the ways you can stop spam?

There are several ways to stop spam:

1. Get a decent antivirus software. Many spam messages are caused by malicious software which captures your contact details. Make sure you regularly check for malware.

2.If you signed up for the spam(newsletters etc.) then unsubscribe by either contacting the sender or using the unsubscribe button in e-mails(if present).

3. Some e-mail providers allow you to block some senders. In Windows Live Hotmail, the Junk button allows you to delete the message and block the sender from your inbox.

4. Contact the company and ask them to stop.

5. If you are being harassed by the spam messages, you have a right to contact the police. Either e-mail or use the non-emergency number for your local police station, and inform them about the messages and who sent them. They will help you as much as possible.

Spam is not that effective, as many people delete the messages upon arrival. However, many children and the elderly are targeted by spam messages, as they do not comprehend the danger. They may unknowingly sign up for spam messages while filling out a form to win a prize, that probably doesn't exist.