Spam is persistent but manageable. Use browser pop-up blockers and extensions, train built-in email spam filters, manage addresses (plus-addressing or Hide My Email), and run reputable anti-malware software. Combine these habits with cautious clicking and account security to cut most spam.
Why spam still matters
Spam interrupts work, clutters inboxes, and sometimes hides malware or phishing links. You probably can't stop every unwanted message, but you can eliminate the majority of pop-ups and junk mail with a few practical steps and tools.
Stop browser pop-ups
Modern browsers include built-in pop-up blockers. In Chrome, Edge, Firefox, and Safari these settings prevent most unwanted windows and redirects. Keep your browser updated and leave the blocker enabled. When a needed window is blocked, you can unblock it for that site.
If you want stronger filtering, install a well-maintained ad-blocking extension such as uBlock Origin or one offered through your browser's official extension store. These extensions block many intrusive scripts and overlays that generate pop-ups.
Train your email filters
Most major providers - Gmail, Outlook.com, Yahoo Mail, and iCloud Mail - include automatic spam filtering. Put obvious junk into the spam or junk folder and use the "Report spam" or "Report phishing" buttons; this trains the filter over time.
Check your spam folder periodically before emptying it, since legitimate messages sometimes get misclassified. Use blocking and filtering rules to move messages from specific senders straight to trash or to a separate folder.
Consider address management techniques to reduce future spam. Gmail supports plus-addressing (name+tag@gmail.com), and Apple iCloud+ offers "Hide My Email" to create unique forwarding addresses for sign-ups. Using a separate address for newsletters and public forms limits exposure of your primary inbox.
Use reputable security software
Run a current anti-malware solution and keep your operating system and browser patched. Built-in protections like Microsoft Defender for Windows and Apple's built-in protections on macOS catch many threats, and third-party options (for example, Norton, Bitdefender, Malwarebytes) provide additional scanning and web protection. Choose products from established vendors and keep them updated.
Don't rely solely on software: avoid clicking links in unexpected emails, never open attachments from unknown senders, and verify offers that look too good to be true.
Practical habits that reduce spam
- Unsubscribe using legitimate unsubscribe links for newsletters you no longer want. If the email looks suspicious, mark it as spam instead of clicking a link.
- Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication for email accounts.
- Limit where you publish your primary email address online.
Bottom line
You can't erase spam completely, but you can reduce interruptions and risk. Combine browser pop-up blockers, email filtering and training, careful address management, and up-to-date security software to keep most spam off your screen and out of your inbox.