5 risks : Google results containing personal photos
The display of personal images on Google can pose some dangers if you keep them there permanently. It is possible for scammers and malicious people to analyze the metadata of photos that are made available on search engines, and so discover sensitive information about the routines of users. Additionally, there is also the possibility of real-life identity theft being used to create fake accounts on social networks such as Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram and to conduct financial scams using the images of the victims posted on those platforms. In some cases, advertisements can still use pictures taken from the web without the consent of the users of the website, or in extreme cases, the pictures can be modified for the purpose of trafficking in pornographic images by scammers.
As a matter of fact, there are methods available to remove personal photos from the search engine, so it is worth mentioning that. Users can choose to get in touch with the website webmaster who is hosting the picture, or they can directly contact Google in order to have the picture removed. Here are some of the risks associated with having your personal photos displayed on Google searches.
1.Using metadata to gain a deeper understanding of you and your routine
Metadata is known as EXIF (Exchangeable image file format). Metadata provides information about an image’s technical characteristics. As well as providing information regarding the time and location of the photo’s capture, they also provide information regarding the device used to capture it.
The consequence of this is that when a personal image is posted on Google, the metadata is also publicly available, thus revealing the privacy of the subject of the image.
As well as technical information, the photo contains elements that can provide insight into a person’s daily routine. Because metadata includes a variety of information, malicious people are able to find out where victims frequent, where they live, where they work, what their hobbies are, among other pertinent details.
2. Identity theft
A further danger of photos appearing on search engines is that they might be able to use your identity on the web by stealing your photos. It is possible for cybercriminals to create fake profiles on the Internet using someone else’s images in order to use the profiles for different purposes. The use of photography to make fake accounts in social networks like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter is also possible, as well as fake accounts on dating sites and apps, such as Tinder. Occasionally, it is also possible for the image to be used to solicit money from friends or family of the victim, who may be asked for a sum of money.
3. Improper use of your photo in advertisements
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