Tips for using Computers Safely
Anyone who uses a computer after you can discover a great deal about your activities.
If you feel unsafe at home, the safest way to surf the net without risk of another tracking your internet activities is to do so at a public library, a friend’s house or possibly at your workplace.
Whatever computer you use, please note the following simple steps you can take to ensure others do not have access to sensitive information.
Don't save your logon information. Always log out of Web sites by clicking "log out" on the site. It's not enough to simply close the browser window or type in another address.
Many programs (especially instant messenger programs) include automatic login features that will save your user name and password. Disable this option so no one can log in as you.
Don't leave the computer unattended with sensitive information on the screen. If you have to leave the computer, log out of all programs and close all windows that might display sensitive information.
Erase your tracks. Web browsers such as Internet Explorer keep a record of your passwords and every page you visit, even after you’ve closed them and logged out.
To disable the feature that stores passwords
Before you go to the Web, turn off the Internet Explorer feature that "remembers" your passwords.
1. In Internet Explorer, click Tools, and then click Internet Options.
2. Click the Content tab, and then click AutoComplete.
3. Click to clear both check boxes having to do with passwords.
To delete your temporary Internet files and your history
When you finish your use of a shared computer, you should delete all the temporary files and your Internet history.
1. In Internet Explorer, click Tools, and then click Internet Options.
2. On the General tab, under Temporary Internet files, click Delete Files, and then click Delete Cookies.
3. Under History, click Clear History.
The bulk of this information is supplied by Microsoft. For further information go to
http://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/privacy/publiccomputer.mspx
