Presiding Officer Yatauro Encourages Residents to Make it Harder for Predators to Find You

Nassau County Presiding Officer Diane Yatauro (D-Glen Cove) encourages residents to take a moment to make it harder for predators to find out where you live. Google has implemented a new feature which displays where someone lives, a map to their house, and in many cases a photograph of the home. This information is easily available by simply typing a telephone number into Google’s search bar and hitting enter. The person’s telephone number, name and address will appear making it easy for potential predators. Additionally, by hitting Map Quest directions will be provided to the person's house, as well as a photograph of the house.

“Some technological conveniences may not benefit us,” Legislator Yatauro said. “The safety issues are obvious here and alarming. Even our children are at risk. If a child gives out their phone number, someone can now easily find out where they live. Fortunately, this feature can be blocked protecting residents.”

To avoid having your personal information available on Google fill out a Google removal form. Go to Google at www.google.com, type your phone number in the search bar including your area code and hit enter. Hit "Phonebook results for (your phone #)." If you want to block Google from displaying your information, simply click on your telephone number and then click on the removal form. Your information will be removed within 48 hours.

This may not apply if you have an unlisted number or cell phone number as your primary contact.