How to Tell if Someone Is Monitoring Your Web Surfing?

Techwalla may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Learn more about our affiliate and product review process here.
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.

Advertisement

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.

Video of the Day

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.

Advertisement

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.

Advertisement

Advertisement

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.

Video of the Day

Advertisement

Advertisement

references & resources