Privacy - Ask Leo!

Are there hidden files that save every keystroke I've ever typed, and how do I find them?
There's a lot of misinformation and even paranoia relating to keystroke logging and privacy. Much of it, however, is based on small kernels of truth. (Continue reading...)

Can an anonymous proxy service capture my email password?
Anonymous access or proxy services provide a level of anonymity by hiding your IP address from sites you visit. A malicious proxy can do a lot more. (Continue reading...)

Can hackers see data going to and from my computer?
In some instances, it might be possible for hackers to see data going to and from one's computer. Sometimes it matters, but sometimes it doesn't. (Continue reading...)

Can hotels sniff my internet traffic?
More and more hotels are offering both wired and wireless internet, but along with those connections comes a security risk most folks don't consider. (Continue reading...)

Can my ISP monitor my internet usage?
Your ISP controls your internet connection and it's easy for them to monitor the data you send and receive. The question is, why would they bother? (Continue reading...)

Can my boss see my mail and instant messages?
If using your company's machine, it's safe to assume that your boss or IT department could see your emails and instant messages. (Continue reading...)

Can my spouse really read my IM conversations?
It's possible for someone on your local network to monitor and perhaps even log internet traffic. That could easily include your IM conversations. (Continue reading...)

Can my work track what I do on my home computer via a remote connection?
Using a computer at work puts you at the mercy of your workplace IT policy. It's technically possible that your work could track all your activities. (Continue reading...)

Can people get my phone number from my web page?
Registration information for domains or web hosting services can sometimes be public. We'll look at how to keep your information private. (Continue reading...)

Can someone find my home address or telephone number from my email address?
Both you and your email provider share responsibility for your privacy. By taking care before providing personal information you can avoid its abuse. (Continue reading...)

Does sharing a computer mean that I'm sharing my Google web history?
It's actually difficult to maintain privacy on a shared computer. Google's web history is one reason, but your browser's history is another. (Continue reading...)

How can I keep my kids safe from internet garbage?
There's a lot of garbage on the internet and it's difficult to prevent your children from seeing it. There are tools to help and steps to take. (Continue reading...)

How can I keep someone from contacting me in email or instant messaging?
Sometimes you may want to explicitly prevent someone from trying to contact you. Ignoring them is often simplest, but there are tools to help as well. (Continue reading...)

How can an https web site still be nonsecure?
Surprisingly, it's possible for aspects of an https site to still be nonsecure, if the site is improperly designed. And it's very difficult to tell. (Continue reading...)

How do I keep myself safe from others on my LAN?
We put a lot of emphasis on keeping ourselves secure from internet threats. But what if the threat is on our own network? How do we stay safe then? (Continue reading...)

How do I stay safe in an internet cafe?
When connecting to the internet in an internet cafe, hotspot or other public connection you could be opening yourself up to serious security issues. (Continue reading...)

How do I view what cookies I have, and which are safe to delete?
Anti-spyware programs often list cookies as suspect without much explanation. We'll look at how to find out a little more, and what to do. Or not. (Continue reading...)

Is it possible for a hacker to get my Hotmail password without access to my computer?
It's easy to think that as long as you keep your computer out of other people's hands you're safe. It's nowhere near that simple. (Continue reading...)

My ex-boyfriend set up my computer and is now spying on me. What can I do?
Trust is tricky when it comes to computers. When you add relationships to the mix, things quickly get complicated, and unfortunately, very serious. (Continue reading...)

What does "leaving a secure internet connection" mean?
One of the ways that hackers gain access to valuable information is to eavesdrop on internet connections. It's important to know if you're secure. (Continue reading...)

What does it mean when a site says they "receive and store certain information"?
Privacy statements of many websites have wording that indicate they recieve and store information. We'll look at just what that might mean. (Continue reading...)

When I visit a web site, can the server identify me?
A server can easily identify any users that visit their web sites. However, there are services that will allow you to surf anonymously. (Continue reading...)

Why am I not getting asked additional security questions when I expect them?
Sitekey is a technique used by many financial institutions to protect your account. How it decides to ask you additional questions can be a puzzle. (Continue reading...)