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If I plug two USB flash drives into a networked computer running Windows XP and copy files from one to another, are there any traces left and can the specific files be traced? I dont want any of my personal files left on the networked computer.

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Depends. How are you copying? – Ignacio Vazquez-Abrams Jul 25 '12 at 7:46
Copied by highlighting then right clicking copy then righting clicking paste. – Bobby Jul 25 '12 at 8:36

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Once you restart Windows, you'll quickly overwrite anything in memory and you'll be okay.

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... No you won't. Windows doesn't deliberately flush memory. – Ignacio Vazquez-Abrams Jul 25 '12 at 7:49
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"Flush" was probably the wrong word to use. It'll be overwritten, or highly unlikely of recovery. – Matt Hanson Jul 25 '12 at 7:52
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If you're incredibly paranoid, consider turning the computer off and waiting for about 15 minutes. I remember something from the bygone ages where some kids found that RAM gradually removes data as it's powered down, rather than instantly. A couple of minutes of physical access and a can of aerosol w/a laptop and a few more tidbits and they were able to access everything that was left in the RAM. – qweet Jul 25 '12 at 7:59
So judging from your comments my files are safe from anybody been able to trace and view? and nothing is left on the network? – Bobby Jul 25 '12 at 8:33
Is it the same if its a mounted mobile phone to a usb flash drive? – Bobby Jul 25 '12 at 8:37

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