Deleting Porn off a desktop computer

Hey there,

Depends how you've been doing your 'research'!

If you've just been browsing, looking at images etc. - clearing your web history & cache should be sufficient. Here's a useful page to help you get started: http://www.boutell.com/newfaq/privacy/history.html

If you've downloaded any standard movie clips (mpeg/wma/avi etc.) then you should probably a) erase the actual files & b) erase your recent document history. Deleting the files is easy. To clear your recent docs history browse to 'C:\Documents and Settings\(Your name here or 'Administrator')\Recent' and delete any suspicious-looking shortcuts. You'll need to configure Windows Explorer (not to be confused with Internet Explorer) to view system files before you'll be able to do that. Tools > Folder Options > View > Show hidden files & folders.

Unfortunately, if you've installed any ActiveX plugins, downloaded any .exe/.msi/program from a dodgy site - chances are your system is infected up to the eyes. In my opinion, the only way to clean a system in that state is to commence with a fresh install after formatting the hard-drive. An excellent 'how-to' article is here: http://lifehacker.com/software/windows/geek-to-live-how-to-format-your-hard-drive-and-install-windows-xp-from-scratch-157578.php

Don't waste your money on 'anti-malware' products that promise to clean your system good as new - they suck. Also, don't forget to backup any important files! If you're so inclined, you can pick up peer-reviewed free software from download.com

If you think you might have a 'relapse', I STRONGLY recommend the Mozilla Firefox browser. See http://www.getfirefox.com/ for more info. It's far more secure than IE & makes it a snap to clear all history, cookies, cache, form history etc.

Finally, stick a picture of [insert female politician of your choice here] on your monitor. Sure fire way to kick the habit!

Azzure

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