Who's looking for you? Stalkers or your graduating class?
Google has a new telephone number search feature. Type a phone number in the Google search bar, and the owners' name comes up with the ability to generate a map directly to their house. This is like a national reverse directory. For free.
If your child gives out their phone number, they can be mapped directly to your house. Not all cell phones are immune. My home and cell phone pop up all over the place. I want people to find me, but some may not want to be found. It is a bit disturbing how easy it is to find someone.
There are times that I look up a number for business reasons. I always Google a person's name and phone number if I am, or a client, is going to do some business with them. I like to have whatever advantage I can get. Now I am beginning to wonder if it is getting too easy to get personal information.
Search for your number at http://www.google.com/ . If you want to block your personal information, go to http://www.google.com/help/pbremoval.html. This will probably make it harder to find a number, but not impossible. Unlisted numbers do not come up, but, for a fee, that information is also available.
Wayne B. Pruner is a Realtor® at Oregon First, who works in the Portland and Tigard, Oregon area. He is ready to help you with all your real estate needs. His phone number is 503-891-0795. Here are links to his real estate website and his real estate blog.
Wayne, I've heard about this before. Disturbing -- especially how you outline the dangers.