Is the threat of the novel 1984 by George Orwell becoming a reality? If so, who is Big Brother now? Via the Internet, business and government can be watching what you like, how you spend your money, how you spend your free time, etc. Is it all paranoia?

Overall, when aware, you can learn about various methods to protect yourself if you are sending sensitive information via the Internet. The point is to be aware about how your information is used and published. Look for a Privacy Policy on sites. Read Terms and Conditions carefully before signing for a service, many e-mail services especially. The point is not to be naive about it.

If you are interested in what information has been gathered about you in various databases across the Internet, take a look at the Stalker’s Home Page. This site by Glen Roberts has a collection of databases that can be used to find out all types of personal information on the Internet. Also take a look at his Privacy Policy which is both a humors and eye-opening look at the world of information collection in Cyber World. Take a look, see what is available and ask yourself again—is it just paranoia?