Security software developer PC Tools declared that up to 50 percent of new spyware threats originated from China and Russia aims specific information for identity theft.
The advice comes among a flood of terrible predictions, as fraudsters and malware writers gear up for a busy Christmas.
Michael Greene, vice president of product strategy at PC Tools, believes that 90 percent of holiday threats come from spyware rather than viruses, as hackers focus on prowling vulnerable companies and stealing personal identities.
Jim Meem, director of PC Tools' Malware Research Center, said: "We are predominantly worried that places like Russia are selling spyware kits and increase this problem. We know that users are specially vulnerable during the holidays."
PC Tools advises users who suspect that they have been caught out by fraudsters to close suspected tampered bank accounts and file a police report. Users in the US should contact the Federal Trade Commission.
