There are many potential dangers when it comes to using the internet. And while many of us are familiar with the term identity theft, doxing is another hazard that has evolved over its short history. It is the act of researching and posting personally identifiable information about a personal without their permission. The information is gathered from social media sites and other legitimate sites who are posting addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, and other information. The information is then posted on information sharing websites with details as to why you should be targeted.
Law Enforcement Officers and Public Officials are at an increased risk of being targeted or hacked by information sharing websites. By posting images of yourself online wearing a uniform that displays a name tag or listing your police department or agency, further exposes the safety of you and your family.
While eliminating your information from every online source is nearly impossible, there are steps that can be taken to minimize your risk in the event that you are targeted.
- Beware of suspicious text messages, phone calls, or emails from people phishing for information or pretending to know you. This is an extremely effective method that is used to trick you into divulging confidential information.
- Turn on all privacy settings on social media sites and refrain from showing images of your affiliation with law enforcement.
- Be aware of your home computers and the settings setup on your wireless networks.
- Contact the Department of Motor Vehicle to restrict your driver’s license and vehicle registration information.
- Contact your local county and request that real estate and personal property records be blocked or restricted from their online database.