Q. What can I do about spam? I was getting so much junk email that I switched providers... but two months later my inbox was overflowing again.

A. Spam is more than just time consuming--it is costing you money. Your Internet Service Provider (ISP) charges you higher rates to keep service efficient when systems get over-loaded with bulk mailings and spam filters. Here are a few tips to help you deal with your spam overload:

• Keep your email address out of public spaces, like chat rooms or online membership directories. Better yet, keep a second email address for personal use only.
• Free services, like spamhole.com or spamgourmet.com, offer disposable email accounts for forms that require an email address.
• Check privacy policies before submitting your email address; if they can sell your address, don't give it to them.
• Choose an ISP with an effective spam filter, and make sure the company won't sell your address. Check out a top-ten list of the biggest culprits at spamhaus.org.
• Regularly update your anti-virus and spyware programs to reduce the risk of your computer being hijacked and used as a spammer tool.
• Don't click "opt-out" or reply to any spam email--it tells spammers that your email address is valid.
• Be part of the bigger solution: Report spam to the Federal Trade Commission by sending a copy of unwanted or deceptive messages to spam@uce.gov. Send a copy to your ISP's abuse desk.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Visit cauce.org. CAUCE (The Coalition Against Unsolicited Commercial Email) is an ad-hoc, all-volunteer organization formed by Netizens advocating a legislative solution to unsolicited commercial email.
 

Editor's Note: When answering your questions, brass consults with experienced professionals from a wide spectrum of industries. We utilize their expertise to give you the answers you need, but it's always wise to seek additional opinions from other professionals.

Sources: spamhause.org; finance.yahoo.com; commtouch.com