The internet is like an ocean, but instead of the water, it contains lots of information and data. The information and data are as a result of what people share online or what is hosted by a certain server somewhere. Some of this information is very sensitive, and a leak can cause a lot of damages to associated entities; individuals or organizations. Personal information on the internet is a vulnerability that can be exploited and be used by stalkers or even used in doxing attacks.
什麼是 人肉搜索 和 在線跟蹤？
In this digital age, doxing refers to the practice of searching, collecting and publicly posting personally identifiable information (PII) on the internet. It’s usually done without one’s consent, and with malicious intent, sometimes it can be used for noble gains. The latter is rare. Online stalking also referred to as cyberstalking is the practice that relies on the internet to monitor or track someone without consent. Cyberstalking can be used to compile comprehensive information about someone, and it can be apart of doxing.
When combined, the results of both doxing and online stalking can be devastating. This is because an individual can experience real-time and online harassment, falsely accusations, and also defamation. They can also lead to blackmail, identity theft, solicitation for sex and even vandalism of properties. While cyberstalking is a criminal offense, the law isn’t clear about doxing.
人肉搜索是如何完成的？
Since doxing involves searching and collecting of information, any method that can yield these goals can be used. Whether it’s for malicious or noble intents, doxing can include the use of many tools such as reverse cell phone lookup and even IP logging. We’ll look at some common ways in which doxing is done;
- 分析社交媒體
纏擾者和任何對人肉搜索感興趣的人都是從社交媒體網站和在線論壇開始的。你可以驚訝於一個人可以從Facebook收集多少資訊。例如，您可以獲取一個人的全名，位址，電話號碼，電子郵件，指向其他社交網站的連結，甚至有關某人的朋友和家人的資訊。僅此一項就足以使您能夠建立個人檔案。轉到其他網站和論壇，您可以推斷出一個人的工作，即工作、愛好、活動等等。您還可以通過輸入個人的全名從Google獲取更多資訊。
- 網路攻擊
This is an advanced method that yields specific sensitive information about an individual. This method requires some knowledge and may take advantage of the ignorance of the target individual as far as cybersecurity is concerned. Cybercriminals interested in doxing a target individual may use methods such as man-in-the-middle attacks. This technique is viable when the target individual connects to an unsecured WIFI. Usually, other means such as real-time stalking and monitoring are used to track the individual. Once connected, the attacker can intercept data about what the target is doing online. This data can be further analyzed to reveal usernames and passwords. Attackers may also spoof the network and steal sensitive information. Other cyber techniques including IP logging, digital spying, password attacks and even phishing.
防止 人肉搜索和在線跟蹤
The only sure way one can avoid doxing and online stalking is by ensuring digital privacy and online security. How do you do this?
- 避免在社交媒體上過度分享
Always limit what you share on social media sites and forums. This includes limiting the audience that can see what you share. Also, avoid posting sensitive information or ethically questionable pictures that can ruin your profession or career. You can also change the privacy scope of some information; it’s advisable to set confidential information to private. You can even use a nickname at times.
- 上網時使用 VPN
A virtual private network ensures your IP address is masked, and hence your privacy will be intact. A VPN also provides security through encryptions. This means even if your information is intercepted, it will be useless to the attacker
Other methods include using strong passwords, disposable accounts and encouraging your friends to be privacy cautious. You can even stalk yourself and delete the unwanted online information you find.
