Please bear with me as I am not as knowledgable about computers as you guys are. I know how to use it but the inner workings are a mystery to me.

My boyfriend and I are moving in together. My computer is newer and faster so he will not be bringing his and will share mine.

I have personal things on my computer and pictures etc. I have saved them to discs, but from what I understand my stuff can still be found. Do I have to get a new hard drive? or is there something else I can do?

Also, is there any way to find out who is on someone's IM list? Is there any way to get in there and see who and what people are saying in a stealth way.

I am interested in msn and yahoo IM.
My comp is 6 months old, hp pavilion mx704.

I know someone can help me here. Thanks