Method and apparatus for deterring snooping of data in digital data processing systems

A latching apparatus which latches a data cable coupling in an electronically coupled configuration to a data port of an electronic device, comprising:

• a first member which is securely attached to said electronic device using at least one first removable fastener;
• a second member which is securely attached to said data cable coupling using at least one second removable fastener;
• and
• a locking mechanism which locks said first and second members together in said electronically coupled configuration;
• wherein, when said first and second members are locked together in said electronically coupled configuration, said first and second removable fasteners are obscured so as to be non-removable.

A latching apparatus for a data cable, comprising, comprising:

• a first member which is securely attached to a coupling at an open end of said data cable using at least one first removable fastener;
• a second member which, in a locked configuration, obscures at least a portion of said coupling to prevent electrical attachment of a device to said coupling;
• and
• a locking mechanism which locks said first and second members together in said locked configuration;
• wherein, when said first and second members are locked together in said locked configuration, said first removable fastener is obscured so as to be non-removable.

A computer system, comprising:

• an electronic component having a data port;
• a data cable having a first coupling for forming an electrical connection with said data port;
• a first member which is securely attached to said electronic component using at least one first removable fastener;
• a second member which is securely attached to said data cable coupling using at least one second removable fastener;
• and
• a locking mechanism which locks said first and second members together in said electronically coupled configuration;
• wherein, when said first and second members are locked together in said electronically coupled configuration, said first and second removable fasteners are obscured so as to be non-removable.