Chapter 7 of my book is entitled ‘Covering Your Tracks and Washing Up’. One of the topics addressed in the chapter is using software that helps delete records of what you do on your computer.
Washing up software is software that erases the records saved by your web browser, operating system and other software on your computer. You may not realize it, but your web browser keeps detailed records of the websites you visit, the key words you search, and the items you download.
Even savvy users who know about this and manually delete these records or browse the Internet in their web browser’s cloaking (privacy) mode might be surprised to learn just how much information is recorded by the operating system and other software (for example, your media player).
The best solution is to use a software utility that is specifically tailored to eliminate these records. Many of these utilities do so at the click of a mouse. Many are even free, including one recommended in my book, eUsing’s Free Internet Window Washer. Another often touted free tool is CCleaner.
Either of these is probably fine. But I think this is an important enough type of software tool that I don’t mind paying. This helps ensure that updates and plug-ins are upto-date and effective.
For about a year now I have used and can recommend Privacy Eraser Pro. It’s the choice I also recommend in my book. You can evaluate it for a trial period. It supports all major web browsers and includes free access to hundreds of plug-ins available for almost every application imaginable – some that you probably didnt even know were keeping records of your activities. As an added bonus, it comes with a built-in file wiping utility. Check out Privacy Eraser Pro for yourself.
If one of the free tools mentioned earlier is fine for your needs, great! With all the tools available, there is no excuse for not washing up and covering your tracks. Make sure you are protecting your privacy.