Clean Windows Automatically
Secure your PC and protect your files and personal info
Security is an important consideration when you use a computer because thieves can use the personal information stored there - such as your name, address, and bank and credit card details - to commit identity theft and fraud. Laptops and netbooks are often the target of theft, and most of us will have at some time lost a USB flash memory drive, so it's worth making sure that the information stored on these devices is secure - just in case the worst happens.
There are tools available to help you keep your Windows clean, which will reduce the chance of your privacy being compromised. Everyday cleaning tasks such as emptying your Recycle Bin, deleting the lists of files from Windows" recently used files, cleaning up Windows" temp files, clearing the clipboard and scrubbing down your internet browsing history can all be done automatically.
Tools such as Free Internet Window Washer (http://bit.ly/exptipl254), FCIeaner (www.fcleaner.com), ACIeaner and Free Privacy Eraser (both from www.cieanersoft.com) can all be used for this purpose, and it's useful to have at least one of them on your PC.
Use encrypted containers
Instead of storing private files and information on the hard disk where anyone can find them, you should create a secure storage area that only you can access. TrueCrypt (www. truecrypt.org) creates an encrypted file that Windows treats just like a separate hard disk. You can save files to it, load files and so on, but when you close it or switch off the PC, it's securely locked and nobody can gain access to it.
Encrypt the disk
It's possible to encrypt and password protect your entire hard disk and everything on it using software such as TrueCrypt, which is useful for laptops and netbooks that could easily be stolen. It can also encrypt a USB flash memory drive, which is even more worthwhile because they are more easily lost, stolen and prone to containing personal information. USB Safeguard (http://usbsafeguardL altervista.org) is another useful program that can also be used to encrypt files on USB memory sticks.
Securely delete files
When a file is deleted, it's moved to the Recycle Bin. Empty the Recycle Bin and the file looks like it's gone, yet the bin's contents actually remain hidden on the disk and, with the right tools, someone could recover them. To prevent this, you must securely erase files containing personal information, bank and other details using a tool such as Eraser (http://eraser.heidi.ie) or Freeraser (http://bit.ly/exptips3254). Freeraser adds a new Recycle Bin icon to the Desktop that you just drop files into. It couldn't be simpler.
Add a password
It's convenient to have the computer start and go straight to the Desktop. Likewise, it's very useful to have your web browser remember the login details for your favorite websites, banks and online stores. But if your computer gets stolen, the thief will have access to everything. Go to User Accounts in the Control Panel and add a password for your account. It won't confound a determined fraudster but it's still an extra layer of security.
By: Francis Davidby: Francis David