I saw that there was spy ware someone can use to monitor your emails, chat, and deleted files. I would like to keep my personal life private without someone ever being able to scan my computer and find private emails, chat or deleted files. If I could find some software to detect if some has installed such software on my computer that would be great, free if possible. I also would like to know the best software to use to clean your computer of all items for safety.
I think I may have not been clear to most. I would like to make sure that no person could gain access to my hard drive and see where I have been or find deleted files. I know that when you delete files they are still on your computer. I would like to know how to make sure they are really gone, and there is no path left to find them or fine any real history. My computer has anti virus protection and it is running greatly. I was stunned to find out how simple it is for criminals, your spouse, boss, employees or hackers to install key logger type spy programs on your computer and watch your every move. Spy software is so easy to install and use, it can turn any eight year old into a seasoned hacker! They have even come out with "hybrid spy software" which disguises itself as an E-Greeting card! The moment you open it you’re infected! These are the things I worry about.

I am leaving my job at the end of this week. I dont have porn or anything like that on my computer but I have done a lot of personal things; documents, spreadsheets, emails, IM etc. Is there anything I can do to purge the computer of this? My boss isnt exactly computer saavy but I dont want to take any chances. I have deleted all documents and emptied the recycle bin, I clear my history daily and run ad -aware to clear my browser. But it is my understanding even though these things are deleted – they arent gone. Is there anything else I can do? Thanks!

My boss is very nosey and likes to look at my computer when i leave work for the day, it would be great to know how to erase my tracks. I know how to right click on internet icon and delete cookies and history that way, but there must be something else to delete becuase he still finds things.