Remember that Myspace profile you made back in middle school? For many students, the HTML coded, music laden, online hangout is a mere figment of the past. But data mining sites like Spokeo make it possible to bring your entire Myspace profile, complete with the pre-teen rants of yesteryear, back from the dead.
It's called the World Wide Web for a reason. Information floats around online. Spokeo makes the gathering process of that information easier.
Think your information is safe? A visit to Spokeo will change your mind. Some of the information that's out there might surprise you.
While a simple Google search can help you find photos, phone numbers, and street addresses, Spokeo takes violating Internet privacy to the next level. Plug your name and where you live into the site's search bar, and it lists details about you that you never thought could be so easily accessible. Your religion, political affiliation, family members, personal interests, and whether you're divorced are all details that a search on the data mining site will reveal. It even shows a street-level satellite picture of your house, complete with it's market value.
The information listed on Spokeo is gathered from social media and public records. In some cases, the site lists incorrect information for religion, or how many people live with you (In the home).
There are over 44 websites like Spokeo that are willing to share your information with the world. It's a tough task to keep some websites from compiling and sharing your data, but with a little work you can wipe most online slates clean.
One way to clear your online data is by visiting the website UnlistMy.info. The site has compiled a list of data mining sites with instructions on how to rid your name of them.
Deb Dolak, Coordinator Of Career Resources at Ball State, says there are small steps everyone can take in making sure their personal information is safe.
"Select strong passwords. Change them often to protect yourself. You should also use a good antivirus program. If you use a Windows-based computer, set it to get updates automatically" she said.
Dolak also warned of malicious links on LinkedIn and Facebook that can infect your computer with data leaching viruses.
According to Dolak, your personal information is not secure online. If you feel that your online privacy has been threatened, you should contact the person in charge of security for your social networking site. You can also file a complaint with the state attorney general’s office. For the Indiana office, go to www.in.gov/attorneygeneral/2474.htm to file an online complaint.
Spokeo Brings Online Privacy Nightmares To Life
