How can I tell if my work computer has any 'big brother' software that my employer has installed? While I can connect to a server, most of the my work day is spent off that server. I have been dealing with some sensitive issues with my child's school and would like to be able to respond promptly to emails sent by them, but want to be sure that it is private. Any advice would be helpful.
2007-02-01 06:55:38 · 7 answers · asked by D Marie 3 in Computers & Internet ➔ Security
Surf some porn and see if you get fired. :-)
Seriously, it's almost impossible to tell. All the tools out there can be hidden.
Here's a way to maintain some privacy. You said that most of your work day is spent off the server. I'm assuming that you are on a public internet connection (DSL or Cable) but not connected to your office's network via VPN.
If this is the case, you can user your browser to access your personal email (hotmail, yahoo, etc.) to communicate privately.
When finished, wipe your history, logs, temp files, etc. The EASIEST way to do this is using a program called Surf Secret (http://www.surfsecret.com).
Don't do anything while connected to your office via VPN that you don't want them to see.
2007-02-01 07:03:23 · answer #1 · answered by Brian C 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
There is no 100% safe way to determine this.
Work computers are not the best place to do real private stuff on.
If it is really important, contact your employer, explain the situation, and ask for approval (written)
You could opt for encrypted email (PGP) but then the other side (school) needs to do the same, otherwise a reply with your mail in it, will still be visible.
And, as stated, email is never 100% secure and private.
2007-02-01 15:04:58 · answer #2 · answered by U_S_S_Enterprise 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Nothing can be guaranteed totally private on-line at your workplace.
They could tell you and lie. I guess it's a matter of trust between you and your employer.
I would simply go tell my immediate boss the situation and ask him. Or say nothing and hope for the best.
I believe even a home connection is never really private.
If there is a way to make it 99.9% secure, I would like to know.
2007-02-01 15:00:50 · answer #3 · answered by Kari 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
With the technology we have today you should be abe to receive emails without having to use your employers computer.
With cell phones, Palm Pilots etc. this should not be an issue for you. You can get email via those devices and they will continue to be private.
2007-02-01 15:22:26 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
The big brother software is pushd down by the server. usualy it is for remote access but there is also monitoring software. removing this can be a violation of IT Dept policy
2007-02-01 14:59:18 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
The IT department at your work has access to anything and everything on your computer, and any e-mail that you send. The only advice I can give is to not use it for personal matters, but I know that is not always possible.
2007-02-01 14:58:49 · answer #6 · answered by Mr. Goodkat 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
â Alt - Control and Delete to bring up Task manager
â See what processess are running
â Anything with the name tracking etc...could be cause for concern.
2007-02-01 14:59:48 · answer #7 · answered by Chεεrs [uk] 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋