Glossary of Terms

The following is a list of terms that are commonly used in this help file.

Cache

A cache (pronounced "cash") is a temporary store of information that has been duplicated for the purpose of speeding up access to data. The original data is stored elsewhere or was computed at an earlier time. For example, when browsing web sites a cache of viewed files are stored in temporary folders and can be viewed when you are offline.

Categories

ParetoLogic Privacy Controls uses a database of definitions (items that can be scanned) that are organized by categories. From time-to-time this database is updated to broaden the range of support offered.

Cookies

Cookies are files that are stored on a computer system after viewing a web site. There are cookies that store information such as username and password so that you do not have to enter them every time you visit a site. Cookies can also be used to track browsing activities across multiple web sites. Often this is done to present the user with specific advertisement to entice them to buy. As a result, privacy and security of information are at risk.

Delete and erase

Most people use the terms "delete" and "erase" interchangeably when referring to removing computer files. Delete is used here to mean securely deleting files so that the file cannot be located or restored using Windows Explorer. Erase is used here to mean permanently erasing data from the system so that not even a recovery tool can restore it. For more information, see Delete and Erase - the Continuum.

History

Computer applications often keep a history of previously opened or viewed items to offer quick access to these recently accessed files. For example, web browsers store links to recently visited web pages, previously viewed web sites are displayed from the history pane, and web addresses are auto-generated when typing in the first letters of the web site.

License key

A license key is an alphanumeric code provided by ParetoLogic for the purpose of registering the product so that you can receive full functionality. A key is required to upgrade from a trial version to a full version of the product. See: How to Register for instructions on entering and renewing a license key.

Logs

Logs are files containing information for the purpose of record keeping. Applications offer the option of storing communication logs (for example, chat logs). Computer programs at times automatically create data logs to record events in order to provide a means to diagnose problems and to offer support.

Overwrite

Overwrite technology involves the act of recording new data over top pre-existing data. Privacy Controls replaces byte information with all zeroes, all ones, a random pattern, or a combination of these depending on the overwrite level that is selected. The data that is overwritten is non-retrievable.

Pointer

Applications store an address location in memory so as to save you time and effort typing in or locating the address again. For example, when you open the Save As dialog box, it will open to the location of the last saved item.

Shredding

Shredding involves using overwrite technology to permanently remove all traces of a file.

Temp Folders and Items

There are many directories on Microsoft computer system that are given the name "Temp" and contain temporary files. These files are used to store items for a temporary period of time and can be deleted afterwards. For example, Windows operating systems use Temp folders to store previously viewed Internet files and make use of temporary files to store browsing history information and settings.

Trial version

A version of the software application that enables you to try out the product before registering to buy it. After the trial period has ended you can continue using the product for free but with limited functionality, or you can get a license key and activate the product to receive full functionality of the program. For more information, see How to Register.

Whitelist

A whitelist is a list comprised of accepted items. In this case, the Privacy Controls Whitelist contains items that you accept as ones you do NOT want deleted after a scan. See Whitelist Items for information on how to use the whitelist.