A method and apparatus for preventing accidental disclosure of confidential information via visual representation objects is described. In one embodiment, the method includes establishing pattern information with respect to confidential information, wherein the confidential information is used to authenticate users, monitoring a visual representation object having an input focus associated with a user interface, wherein the visual representation object receives input data, comparing the input data with the pattern information to identify at least one unobscured portion of the confidential information and producing indicia of detection of the at least one unobscured portion of the confidential information on the visual representation object.