How to Tell if Someone Is Monitoring Your Web Surfing?

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Tell if Someone Is Monitoring Your Web Surfing?

Viruses aren't the only problem that computer users must worry about. Users must also worry about the safety of their stored information, and in some cases, they must worry about others monitoring their computer usage. This is sometimes a jealous boyfriend or girlfriend, but it can also be a hacker trying to steal your personal information.

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Step 1

Check your installed programs. If you see anything that you did not install and is not part of Windows, use the remove program option. Often those who install these programs do not expect the user to look for them, so they do not hide them.

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Step 2

Check your task bar. These programs must always be running to monitor you. There will be an icon for it in your task bar. Don't forget to check the hidden ones by clicking on the "less than" sign in the bar.

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Step 3

Check the open ports. Those who wish to hide the software will come in through an open port that is not blocked by a firewall. Click on "Start," go to the "Control panel" and select "Windows firewall." Click on "Extensions" and look to see which items are checked. If an item is checked, it is coming in through a firewall. Remove any that you do not recognize.

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Step 4

Check the processes. Do this by pressing "Ctrl," "Shift" and "Esc" at the same time. Click on the processes tab. The only user names that should be listed is your computer name, local service, network service and system. If there is anything else, someone is monitoring your computer.

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