Things you need to hide on your computer

Your computer knows an awful lot about you, and in a few clicks someone else can, too.

It’s more important than ever to keep your digital life as hidden as possible. From password-protected files to folders with misleading names to encryption, there are plenty of methods out there to keep sensitive information tucked away. Here are few things you need to hide on your computer.

But besides the obvious sexy photos and porn stash, what other secret stuff should you hide from prying eyes? Below, we’ve compiled a list of eight things you should consider hiding on your computer.

1. Gift and to do list

This holiday season, you’re probably making a list and checking it twice. Gift lists are handy to keep track of what presents you need to buy, but don’t leave it out in the open on your computer for family and friends to peek at. Same goes for to-do lists.

2. Tax receipts, W-2 forms, credit card statements and electronic bills

Scrub through your computer to see if there are any files that include your online banking information, account numbers and other financial data. This includes looking into tax receipts, W-2 forms and credit card statements you may have saved or scanned to your computer.

If you receive electronic bills and downloaded them to your computer, it’s best to take a closer at these documents. These can contain personal information and account numbers that you don’t want anyone to access.

3. Job Application

If your inquisitive co-worker happens to be browsing your computer, you don’t want him to see the cover letter you sent when you applied for a job at a different company. You also don’t want him running his mouth to others in the office about your secret job hunt. Furthermore, some companies have direct access to employees’ computers and/or browsing histories, so even if HR isn’t directly in front of your computer doesn’t mean they couldn’t tap in.

It’s best to hide resumes, cover letters and other application forms. With that said, do not take the risk of applying for jobs at work, whether it’s on your personal or work computer. Your employer’s system administrator could possibly access your files remotely and view your browser history when you’re connected to the company’s Wi-Fi network.

4. Files with personal identification details

It’s smart to keep copies of important documents like your social security card or passport. But it’s not smart if they are saved on your computer without protection. The last thing you want is for your computer to end up in the wrong hands, and put yourself at risk for identity theft.

Here’s a list of documents to consider hiding on your computer:

• Birth certificate
• Passport documents
• Social security card
• Driver’s license
• State-issued identification cards
• Medical papers
• School records
• Tickets

5. Username and password information

Keeping track of 50 different username and passwords can drive you insane. At first, it may sound like a great idea to keep your login information in one document so you don’t forget anything. But by doing so, you’re putting yourself at risk. Hide or encrypt the document so no one can find your information.

Looking for an alternative? There are cross-platform password managers that will store your login data, such as 1Password and LastPass. These secure services automatically fill your password data, making password management a whole lot easier and safer.

6. Confidential work documents

When you work for a company, you may have an obligation to keep classified reports and proprietary information confidential. In case a hacker accesses your computer, make sure these files are hidden. The last thing you want to do is put your job at risk and be fired for leaking confidential documents.

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Source : Mashable.com