Maxtor BlackArmor - How to Clear Cached Data from Google Desktop

Overview:
It has been identified that the Passwords created for Maxtor BlackArmor drives can be cached by the Google Desktop. This content remains on the Host Computer - even if one clears their Browser's History/Sensitive Data. The following video shows how to clear the Google Desktop Cache.

  1. Right-click on the Google Desktop Icon (located in the System Tray) and select Exit from the drop-down menu
  2. The next task you will have to complete is to Show hidden files and folders...to do this:
    • For Windows 7/Vista Users:
      1. Open the Control Panel
      2. From the Control Panel, click on Appearance and Personalization
      3. From Folder Options, click on the Show hidden files and folders link. The Folder Options window opens.
      4. Click on the Show hidden files and folders Radio Button.
      5. Click Apply
      6. Click OK. Hidden files and folders are now viewable.
    • For Windows XP Users:
      1. Open the My Computer
      2. Click on Tools - Folder Options... The Folder Options window opens.
      3. Click on the Show hidden files and folders Radio Button.
      4. Click Apply
      5. Click OK. Hidden files and folders are now viewable.
      Close all open windows to return to the Windows Desktop.
  3. It's now time to clear Google Desktop's Cached Data:
    • For Windows 7/Vista Users - Browse to the Following Folder Structure:
      C:\Users\UserName\AppData\Local\Google\Google Dektop\random_12_character_foldername
    • For Windows XP Users - Browse to the Following Folder Structure:
      C:\Documents and Settings\UserName\Local Settings\Application Data\Google\Google Dektop\random_12_character_foldername
    Note: UserName and random_12_character_foldername foldernames will vary from system to system.
  4. Delete any/all files with the following extension(s):
    • *.cf1
    • *.ht1
    • *.wh
    • Note: This includes files with said extensions located in subfolders
      Close all open windows to return to the Windows Desktop.
  5. Empty the Recycle Bin
  6. Restart the Google Desktop. Cached data is now clear.
  7. Repeat this procedure regularly to prevent the unneeded storage od sensitive data.

Maxtor BlackArmor Video Tutorial: Clearing Cached Data from The Google Desktop - Windows Vista

View Flash Guide
Click here to launch the movie.