There is a program that claims to rid your computer of spyware programs that steal personal information. Instead, it downloads programs that spy on you.

Philadelphia television station WCAU says the new twist could make the solution worse than the initial problem.

SPYWARE If you believe spyware has been installed on your computer (one sign is pop-up advertising that is not affiliated with the site you're viewing), software can help you remove it. Ad-aware Spybot-S&D Survey: Have You Had Spyware?

If you are not familiar with spyware, they are programs that surreptitiously monitor your online activity. They can hijack your computer and steal your passwords or personal information.

"These are basically (some) programs that are offered on the Internet that tell you they will help you remove spyware, but which in fact add more spyware, and more insidious spyware to your computer," said John Fried of the Philadelphia Inquirer.

How can you be sure you're not downloading deceptive spyware removal programs? Fried says a big step in combating spyware is not to click on any unfamiliar sites or ads.

"The rule is to ignore the ads, ignore popups, ignore enticements. If you're worried about anti-spyware on your computer, get a legitimate program," Fried said.

If your computer is running slowly, it's a possible sign that you have spyware on your computer. How do you get rid of the stuff?

There are two programs that are free and available online. One is called SpyBot the other is called Ad-Aware.