Spam is a term used to describe unsolicited electronic messages (e-mail, chat messages, or any hosted communications) usually advertising a product or service or for blatant commercial intent. Spam is usually sent in bulk to multiple recipients, or posted in public comments and in forums. The name of Spam comes from both the processed meat product and a Monty Python reference. The concept of the name is you are receiving fake meat that you don't want or didn't intend to receive.
Protecting Yourself From Spam
There are several ways users can reduce the amount of Spam they receive. The most effective are techniques that are deployed on the server side that detect and filter the Spam from the real E-mail. Programs for this include Spam Assassin and online services like Spamcop. Many ISPs that provide E-Mail also include some layer of Spam protection that can be adjusted by the end user. For more information please see the Mahalo guide on How to Stop Spam Email.
References
Fast Facts
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Fact:
There are several billion Spam messages sent daily
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Fact:
The top produces for Spam are the United States, China and Russia in that order
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Fact:
In 2004 it was estimated that Spam cost Internet users $21.58 billion annually in lost productivity costs
