TODAY'S TOURBUS TOPICS: ERASING YOUR TRACKS / LINUX

Did you know that your own personal computer is watching you while you surf the web, keeping a detailed log of when and where you go on the Internet? Should you be afraid? Read on...

"Cleanup in Aisle 451"

Yes, it's true. Every time you visit a website, your browser makes an entry in a log file with the address, date and time of the visit. It even knows how often you visit your favorite sites. And did you know that the text and pictures from every web page you view are stashed away on your hard drive, even if you close your browser and disconnect from the Net?

If you're concerned about nosy "neighbors" getting access to your web browsing history, you'll be relieved to know that the storage of all this information is under your control. There are ways to wipe your browsing history, but even if you're a seasoned internaut, you may be leaving a crumb trail. Read this article and learn how to protect your privacy and remove every trace of your online activity.

http://www.askbobrankin.com/clearing_browser_history.html

Saving Word Files as Web Pages

Did you know that Microsoft Word can save a document as a web page? Word tries hard to make the web page look exactly like the Word file, but the resulting HTML file is a bloated monster that sometimes causes problems when displayed with a web browser. Here's a solution to that problem...

http://www.askbobrankin.com/saving_word_files_as_html.html

What's the Deal With Linux?

A reader asked me "I've heard that Linux is an alternative to the Microsoft Windows operating system, but where did it originate, why is it free, and how can I learn more about it?"

As it happens, I wrote a book on that very subject. And recently I put the entire text of "The No BS Guide to Linux" online at

http://www.LowFatLinux.com

It's a tutorial about Linux, a free alternative to running Windows. I created this website for people who want to learn the basics of using Linux, without getting bogged down in all the technobabble. You'll find plain-English information here about using Linux on a personal computer or on a shell account provided by your Internet Service Provider. Check it out and let me know what you think!

How Safe Is Your Computer?

Did you know... a survey conducted by the National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA) and backed by the US Department of Homeland Security found that more than 70% of computer owners falsely believed they were safe from online threats such as adware, spyware and viruses?

The truth is, it's easy to get infected without even knowing it. Downloading free software or visiting tainted Web pages can often infect your computer. What's an unsuspecting computer owner to do? No need to worry - you can take steps to eliminate this false sense of security by taking a few precautions to protect yourself. And Smart Computing can help. Sign up for your 3 RISK-FREE ISSUES now!

http://www.internettourbus.com/smart.htm

That's all for now, see you next time! -- Bob Rankin