One of the largest scams on the Internet today is spam messages that promise unbelievably low prices on popular software. The advertised prices are tempting, but the old saying is that if something seems to be too good to be true, then it usually is. In the case of buying really cheap software from companies that spammed you, this saying often proves to be correct.

It’s generally a very bad idea to purchase software from questionable sources such as a company that would send you an unsolicited e-mail. Good software is expensive, but there are a host of reasons why you shouldn’t give into the temptation of trying to buy it at rock bottom prices.

Buying software of uncertain origins may be harmful to your computer and your wallet. Much of that low-priced software advertised in spam messages is actually material that has been pirated. That means if you buy it, there is a good chance you’d be buying a counterfeit product that is not guaranteed to work properly or at all. Worse, pirated software could contain harmful viruses that could do serious damage to your computer.

Of course the scenarios mentioned above can only occur if you receive the software for which you pay. In many cases, software purchased through spam messages never arrives. Plus, if you ordered software, a very questionable company will have your credit card information. If a criminal is willing to pirate software, imagine the fun he or she could have with your credit card.

Then there is the moral issue of buying software that could be pirated. Legitimate software is expensive, but there is a reason for this. The manufactures put millions of dollars into developing the programs contained on the software. When people purchase pirated material, the companies and their employees who have worked to create today’s increasingly useful software are not compensated for their efforts.

Is there a way to buy legitimate software on-line? The answer is yes, but make sure you know the company is legitimate. Get the company’s full address and phone number up-front. Make sure you get the full details on the company’s return and warranty policies. It’s not a good sign if these policies aren’t present. Finally, keep records such as order numbers or e-mail confirmations. Even if the company is legitimate, you’ll occasionally have problems.

Here is something else to consider. If you’re sick of getting all of those spam messages in the first place, you’ll want to subscribe to HunTel.net’s E-Shield. This useful service filters the majority of the spam sent to your e-mail address and helps keep your in-box clean. E-Shield is only $2 per month and you can try it for free. More information and a subscription form are available here.

If you have any questions regarding spam or any other Internet related issue, please contact our tech support team. We can be reached at 533-5777 or 1-888-491-9115. You can also send us an e-mail at techsupport@huntel.net.