How Can I Tell if My Second-Hand Computer is Being Monitored?

It's pretty weird that you bought from someone so flaky. The motherboard's BIOS doesn’t connect to the internet, so even if he does have some sort of code, it likely wouldn’t let him spy on you remotely. I’d recommend just reinstalling Windows – that should wipe out any unwanted monitoring software he might have left on your system. It's a straightforward way to ensure you're safe.

Honestly, the whole idea of him having a code on the motherboard sounds like nonsense. You should just format your hard drive and reinstall the operating system. If you still feel uneasy, you can always check the motherboard visually just to be safe.

You definitely want to wipe your system and reinstall Windows. Anytime you buy a second-hand computer, that's just good practice. It'll help clear out any potential monitoring software. Also, flashing the BIOS is a good idea if you're really paranoid – just download the latest version from the manufacturer's site.

Just to ease your mind, it's nearly impossible to hack and insert surveillance into the motherboard itself without advanced skills. I suggest doing a complete format of all drives and a fresh OS install. That’ll greatly reduce any risk of being monitored.

Reinstalling Windows is definitely a step in the right direction! But in terms of that 'motherboard code' he mentioned, it doesn’t really hold water. Sounds like he was trying to pull a fast one. If you're still worried, making sure your network is secure is always smart.