How to Protect Your Computer from Snoops

Keep private info from prying eyes and earn some peace of mind when you safeguard your PC or Mac against nosy intruders.

Instructions

Step 1: Password-protect your network When you create a Wi-Fi network, use the instructions that came with your router to set up password-protected encryption. An unprotected network is an open invitation to wireless freeloaders and hackers.
TIP: Encrypt your network with Wi-Fi Protected Access — or WPA — and choose a long password that incorporates numbers and letters.
Step 2: Disable your auto-login Consult your operating system's help feature to disable your auto-login. If your computer automatically logs you in at start up, you're giving spies a free pass -- a would-be snoop can shut down your computer, reboot, and gain automatic access.
TIP: To disable auto-login on your work computer, you'll probably need to talk to the IT specialist first.
Step 3: Password protect your screensaver Password-protect your screensaver, and shorten the amount of time it takes for it to pop up. A password-protected screen can give you some peace of mind; when you get up to grab a cup of coffee, your computer won't be at the mercy of anyone who wants to poke around your files.
Step 4: Jump between virtual desktops Jump between virtual desktops, which are like extra screens for your monitor. Each virtual desktop can house different windows, & can disappear or return with a keystroke. Keep several desktops filled with files suited for public viewing while using one just for personal information (including IMs and games). Toggle between them as necessary.
TIP: Virtual desktops can be created on Macs operating with Leopard OS X 10.5 using the feature known as Spaces. A similar PC program for Windows Vista and XP can be downloaded online.
Step 5: Install a snoopware blocker Install a snoopware blocker on your computer, which keeps outsiders from installing software on your computer that lets them track your every keystroke, peer through your webcam, and more.
TIP: Don't do this at work. Your employer has a right to keep tabs on your computer activity.
Step 6: Invest in a filter A privacy filter fits directly over your screen, and blurs your data from peripheral angles. Your screen will be essentially unreadable unless seen head-on, making it that much harder for spies to get a glimpse.
Step 7: Mount a mirror Mount a mirror on top of your monitor. Angle it so that you have a good view of what's going on behind you, and keep a discreet eye on potential busybodies. And if anybody asks, blame it on your need to look great at all times.
FACT: Thirty percent of bosses who participated in a 2007 study had fired an employee for internet misuse.