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 as well. Everyone should be aware of
this!
Note that you can have your phone number removed or blocked.
I tested it by typing my friends telephone number in google.com. His phone number came up, and when I clicked on the MapQuest link, it actually mapped out where he lives.
Quite scary.
Please look up your own number. Read below for details. Think about it--if a child, ANYONE gives out his/her phone number, someone can actually now look it up to find out where he/she lives. 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 Phonebook Results link above your phone number and click on the Phone Book Removal Form. Removal takes 48-hours. If you are unlisted in the phone book, you might not be in there, but it is a good idea just to check. If your number does come up if you hit map, it will show you a direct map to your house...
You may want to forward this to friends and family, your decision. Don't forget to check you cell phone number, too.
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