Photo: SOPA Images/LightRocket via Gett
Google users, which is just about everybody every single day, should take into account the potential risks behind their search.
The uses for Google are endless and hackers are constantly targeting Google searches. People have reportedly had their personal information stolen after clicking on fraudulent links that appear at the top of a page that pops up following a specific search. For instance, when people search for terms like legal documents or agreements, they might click on infected links created by hackers that compromise someone's device.
CEO of Data Discovery Scientists Dr. Ed Peters said Google is generally safe to use, but people are always lurking for your personal data.
"Google is pretty careful but I imagine there are some things that could impact people's general search capabilities," he said.
It's also law enforcement officials that could end up getting involved based on someone's Google search. There have been instances before where authorities have shown up to someone's door because they searched things like "pressure cooker bomb." IT staff of your employer could end up flagging searches like this if they are made on a work computer.
Dr. Peters said hackers will also use your name or other people's names that you would know in emails or text messages sent to you that look real as another tactic.
"It's a cumulative type of attack," Dr. Peters said. "They're trying to get you to give out more information."
There are easy ways to avoid having move of your personal information leaked and to stay safe when searching something on Google. Dr. Peters suggests a VPN, or virtual private network.
"That's the easiest way and will not allow a hacker to get your data in such a way that they can use it," said Dr. Peters.
Also, avoid clicking on any ads or suspicious links that pop up on your page and with Google, you can always private browse and utilize an "Enable SafeSearch" feature that will block explicit or potentially harmful content.