As the internet finally begins to catch up with our $400 smart phones, privacy experts are also taking note of the double-edged sword that is the cell phone registry.
We bought cell phones out because it became necessary to be in touch at all times. The fact that telemarketers, prank callers and random people couldn't find our numbers was just a bonus - a wonderful one.
Now, however, it's become quite an easy task for anyone looking for someone's cell phone number, other personal information as well.
The idea of a cell phone registry has become a big issue lately, Cingular, Nextel, Sprint, T-Mobile, and Alltel, have been working on a cell phone directory. And even while they talk, one such database shut down over pressures from privacy advocates and Verizon. Intelius was the first such provider to shut down over privacy fears, but still others are running.
Privacy experts say these type of services make it all too easy to find a disturbing amount of information without much effort. They say stalkers or attackers could quickly find a person's cell phone number, their address, their place of work and even their financial records for a small fee. These registries open people up to the frightening possibility of losing track of their private information.
Unlike the directories proposed by cell phone providers, online databases are linked to people's public records and are difficult to hide as one would with the Do Not Call List or by having an unlisted number. Instead of having to actually go to the courthouse and fill out a lot of paperwork, these public records are now found quickly online.
The reason they're still running is because even most privacy advocates even know they exist. Most people just assume that their public records are kept safe at the court house.
More advocates are looking into this type of cell phone registry because of the frightening implications that having so much information online.
Looking for someone's cell phone number? Try out the longstanding http://www.cellphoneregistry.org can prove a lot of your information.
Check it out and see what kind of information you can really find online.
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