Computer users everywhere list computer privacy as one of the biggest blockades to their Internet use. While online shopping, banking and bill paying is available and likely very convenient, the idea of sending personal information into a seemingly unknown abyss like the world wide web makes many people uncomfortable. The collection and sale of personal information has become a booming business for the marketing industry, so one has a reason to be leery of disclosing private information online. Even those grocery store discount memberships have an ulterior motive: your local grocer could actually be tracking your purchases so that targeted coupons can reach your doorstep. Sure this tailor-made marketing sounds kind of exciting and convenient, but who really gets their hands on your private information? Whether it's shopping habits or your social security number you should tighten the reigns on your privacy. Here are two effective ways to improve your personal privacy level on the web.

1. Use a separate account for your personal email. Though you may be sending email from your home computer, if you are using your workplace email server your information could be easily accessed by your employer and coworkers. Set up a separate email account stemming from a separate server to ensure that your messages are confidential.

2. Clear your browser cache after browsing. After you surf the web a transcript of all you visited sites and activities is stored on your PC. Go to "Preferences" in your browser and click on "Empty Cache". This way your browsing activity is between you and your PC- nobody else.

To really ensure your privacy though, you should seriously consider purchasing privacy software.