Top tips for reducing spam

• Check privacy policies and marketing opt-outs or opt-ins carefully.
  When filling in any form, look out for the 'opt-in or opt-out' box, which is usually at the bottom of the form. If you read the short statement, it will tell you how the organisation intends to use your information.
  
• Never respond to spam.
  Replying can indicate that your email address is live. This can encourage the more unscrupulous senders to send you even more emails.
  
• Don't click on the adverts in spam emails.
  By clicking on spammers' web pages, you identify your email address as being live and may make yourself a target for more emails. It can also make your computer open to virus and other malicious attacks.
  
• Use a spam filter on your computer.
  Spam filters are programs that work with your email package to sift through new emails, identifying spam and blocking it.
  
• Keep your home / office computer well maintained.
  Hackers and spammers can exploit software problems, so most software companies issue product updates and patches that fix known problems.
  
• Download the updates and patches to ensure your computer is well protected.
  Websites such as www.junkbusters.com and www.getnetwise.com also offer advice, although some of the advice is specific to US-based users.
  
• Who to contact if you have difficulty reducing the amount of electronic marketing
  If, after you tell the organisation you want to 'opt out', you still continue to get unwanted electronic marketing, visit www.ico.gov.uk or contact the helpline on 08456
  306060 for advice on what to do next.