Exploring Online Information: Websites, Media, Forums, and Blogs
To effectively gather information, it is recommended to enter the full name in an incognito window. Most search engines offer this functionality to ensure that search results are unbiased and unaffected by previous browsing activities. This method can reveal old resumes, lists of associations or professional organizations, public databases, as well as social media profiles, blogs, and forum discussions related to the individual.
Additionally, when searching for individuals who utilize pseudonyms or nicknames, include specific personal details alongside the name. Keywords such as “age,” “profession,” “ID,” “city of birth,” “city of residence,” and the “name of the company” can provide more relevant results about their online presence.
Finding Photographs
Most search engines categorize content by type, including options like “Images,” “Videos,” and “News.” If someone has been featured in articles, these categories can be helpful. Google also offers a reverse image search tool called Lens. Users can upload a photo—such as profile pictures or avatars—to see where it appears online.
Checking Private Data
Personal information, including email addresses and phone numbers, may be publicly available online. Tools exist to determine if personal emails have been compromised due to data breaches. Companies in various sectors, such as airlines and telecommunications, may experience cyberattacks that expose personal data. Websites like Haveibeenpwned.com allow users to check if their email address has ever been involved in a data leak.
Reviewing Social Networks
It is advisable to assess your online activity on social media to identify posts, comments, and images that no longer reflect your current identity. Platforms like X allow users to search their own content using specific keywords, making the process more efficient. Additionally, social networks have general search functions enabling users to check their names even without an active account. Only publicly available content can be accessed, as private profiles remain hidden.
