Yup!

Spyware infects your computer via:

spy

• Email attachments. Do not click to open any unknow attachments from emails.
• Hackers. Hackers hacking into your computer and install spyware.
• Pirated software. Piracted software can come with spyware.
• Illegal software. Illegal or unknown software downloaded from the Internet for free can install spyware in your computer.
• Internet pop-ups and advertisement. These ads can trigger the installation of spyware if clicked.
• File sharing software or websites. Do not visit websites that offer free file sharing or download.
• Fake spyware removal programs. They are in fact installing spyware in your computer. Stay away from scams.

A spyware can cause the following problems:

• Tracks your Internet surfing and sends the data back to the hackers.
• Slows down your computer.
• Eating up your Internet bandwidth.
• It can create files, folders, change your registries, cookies and so on.
• It can hijack your computer.
• It installs key logger codes in your computer.