Do you need to cover your tracks?

If you are concerned that someone else using your computer may learn what sites you have visited on the Internet, you can erase many of these files. It is very difficult to remove every trace. If you do not want to create this trail on your personal machine, but wish to research sensitive items, especially if your personal safety might be comprised, consider browsing the web from someone else computer. Public libraries, educational institution and cafes have computers available where you steps are less likely to be traced.

First, make sure that the "Use Inline Autocomplete" box is NOT checked. This function will complete a partial web address while typing a location in the address bar at the top of the browser. If you are using Internet Explorer, this box can be found on the MS Internet Explorer Page by clicking on the "View" icon at the top, then "Internet Options", and then the "Advanced" tab. About halfway down there is a "Use Autocomplete" box that can be checked and unchecked by clicking on it.

Directions for Microsoft Internet Explorer

  1. Select "Internet Options" from the Tools pull-down menu.
  2. Click the "General" tab.
    1. On the middle of this page is the Temporary Internet Files section.
    2. Click the "Delete Files" button.
  3. You will then be prompted by the dialog box, Delete files.
    1. In this dialog box you are asked if you wish to Delete all files in the Temporary Internet Files folder.
    2. Click the "OK" button.
  4. On the bottom of this page is the History section.
  5. Click the "Clear History" button.
  6. You will then be prompted by the dialog box, Internet Properties.
    1. In this dialog box you are asked if you wish to Delete all files in your History folder.
    2. Click the "OK" button.
  7. Click the "OK" button.

Directions for Netscape 4.x.

  1. Select Preferences from the Edit pull-down menu.
  2. Click the plus sign (or triangle for the Mac) next to Advanced.
  3. Select Cache.
  4. If you are using Windows:
    1. Click the Clear Memory Cache button.
    2. Click the OK button in response to Continue?
    3. Click the Clear Disk Cache Now button.
    4. Click the OK button in response to Continue?
  5. If you are using a Mac:
    1. Click the Clear Disk Cache Now button.
    2. Click the OK button in response to Continue?
  6. Click the OK button.