Google makes stalking easy

Google has implemented a new feature wherein you can type someone's telephone number into the search bar and hit enter and then you will be given a map to their house. Everyone should be aware of this! Note that you can have your phone number removed or blocked.

I tested it by typing my mom's telephone number in google.com. Her phone number came up, and when I clicked on the MapQuest link, it actually mapped out where she lives. Quite scary. Please look up your own number. Read below for details. If a child, or ANYONE gives out his/her phone number, someone can actually now look it up to find out where he/she lives and get a map to the front door. The safety issues are obvious, and alarming.

In order to test whether your phone number is mapped, go to: http://www.google.com/ Type your phone number in the search bar (i.e.555-555-1212) and hit enter. If you want to BLOCK Google from divulging your private information, simply click on the telephone icon next to your phone number, or the word telephone above the phone number or go to www.google.com/help/pbremoval.html. Removal takes 48-hours. If you are unlisted in the phone book or have a cell phone you might not be in there, but it is a good idea just to check. If your number does come up and you click on "map", it will show you a direct map to your house.