The internet can be a very beneficial, fun and convenient resource, but it can also be unsafe, as there are many different security issues that people need to be aware of. These security problems do not only include computer viruses and spyware, but also privacy issues in regard to cell phone information.
One of the biggest privacy issues that involve cellular phone information is the release of private information, such as phone numbers, addresses, and phone records, among other personal details. However, obtaining this information is not always considered illegal or a breech of privacy, such as in the case of a reverse phone lookup. When a person performs a reverse phone lookup they already know the phone number, but usually not the identity of the number's owner. In most cases reverse cell phone searches are used to trace an unknown caller, and the results that are provided typically only include the city and state, and phone company associated with the number.
On the contrary, attempting to find an individual's cell phone number through a forward search, which involves using a persons name, address and/or location as the search tools, is considered an invasion of privacy and is illegal.
However, despite the existence of laws to protect the privacy of cellular phone users, these laws are only helpful to a degree. It is up to you, the cell phone subscriber, to take the extra step and ensure that you don't experience privacy issues in relation to your mobile phone information and the internet.
How can you do this? For starters, do not post your cell phone number, or any of your personal information such as your home address on any website. You can never make the assumption that your personal information is safe on the web. There are highly skilled computer individuals out there who will use bots to scan the net for peoples' personal information, such as email address, phone numbers, etc. The information that is collected will then be used on a site designed to draw traffic with various ad programs. If your personal information ends up on this website, your personal details will be even more readily available to the public.
Another good idea is to register your cell phone number with the Federal Trade Commission's National Do Not Call Registry (NDNCR). The NDNCR helps to reduce the number of telemarketing calls made to telephone consumers. Although it is illegal for the vast majority of telemarketers (those who use auto diallers - virtually all of them) to call cell phones, registering your cell number with the NDNCR should take care of most of the other unwanted telemarketing calls you may experience.
You should take your cell phone privacy very seriously. Make sure you know all of the security features on your phone, are strict about who you give your number to, and you never post your number online. The more protective you are with your cell phone information, the harder it will be for a person to trace a cell phone number on the internet that belongs to you.
Mary is a bookworm that loves to write about technology and ethical issues.
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