Are there files that is a good idea to delete?

[MacBH928]

So using your computer over time will leave a lot of residue files and folders, I learned that there are files that keep logs on your usage. I am not trying to start with a fresh install.

Are there any files that are generally good idea to clear/delete or should not be there I better clear from my system? I rather not have something record my usage history.

 

[Red Menace]

I perform clean installs specifically to get rid of old files. The system caches a lot of stuff to improve performance - what kind of usage history are you talking about?

 

[MacBH928]

I perform clean installs specifically to get rid of old files. The system caches a lot of stuff to improve performance - what kind of usage history are you talking about?

Anything really, I learned that computer forensics have specific files and places to check for your activity and I am wondering where those are. I know I can encrypt the disk, but I am not trying to hide the data from someone, I rather it did not exist.

 

[BrianBaughn]

Log files don't take up much space unless there's an odd issue.

You will have to research each one to know if it's a problem to delete it.

 

[Mikael H]

If you're paranoid, use something like TAILS while browsing for porn secrets.

 

[MacBH928]

If you're paranoid, use something like TAILS while browsing for porn secrets.

I know about TAILS. The computer in question has a system that been active for 15+ years, it has traces from OS9 days. I don't know whats in the system or what it logged or what can be "collected" by privacy invasive services especially considering the crazy amount of apps installed on it through the years. I would like to delete it... just like you delete your browsing history every now and then.