In this day and age where nearly 89 percent of Americans own a home computer, most people who spend time online are aware of the internet term 'Spam'. Basically this is a term for unsolicited emails which are duplicated and sent to multiple recipients. In most cases, the person receiving these messages would not have initiated action to warrant delivery. They are unwanted, and sometimes to the unsuspecting person potentially dangerous.

With email spamming comes an increase in cost to the internet user who views it and to Internet Service Providers as well. Some spammers who use special tools that enables them to subscribe to discussion groups and message boards abuse this privilege by sending spam through that source. Having access to email addresses allows slammers to send advertisements to everyone who is a member.

Many of the email spam are in the way of advertisements or even scams. Some may contain viruses as well. This is why it is crucial for those who receive an email from an unknown and questionable source to discard the message without opening it. It is vital never to download an attachment unless you are sure of the origin and source of the sender.

A good percentage of spam is in the form of bogus offers with phony claims. Unfortunately there are those who will easily fall prey to unscrupulous spamming by giving their personal information through an email offer which seems like an honest deal.

The Federal Trade Commission enforces laws against those who actively send junk mail to addresses on the web. Dubbed the Can Spam law, this also encourages individuals to do their part by reporting dishonest email to them directly.

Countless individuals who have an email address are concerned with how to eradicate the problem of unsolicited email. Fortunately, there is something viable and hands-on that can be done. One major step is not to disclose a personal email address on a public message board, forum or newsgroup. There is a 'Private' option, and this often works best to deter the issue.

Secondly, when signing up for offers or forums, it's a good idea not to use a primary address. Instead, choosing to open a special account via a free web-based email address will help keep unwanted mail out of your regularly used email account. It might seem like extra effort, but the end results are worth it.

Lastly, always use a junk mail filter for anti-spamming. In doing so, any mail from an unknown source will be delivered straight to this 'unwanted' folder. Since virtually every email account offers this feature, utilizing this tool is simple and straightforward.