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Short of never going online, it's almost impossible to keep all personal information off of the internet. In fact, even staying offline won't help. Offline companies that allow you to access your account online (banks, for example) have your information in a web accessible database just in case you decide to use it. Of course, data like that is generally secure, so let's focus on other ways personal information spreads on the internet.

If you've ever been written about, even in offline publications, it's likely that information is now in an online news archive. Company newsletters and school news are also frequently archived on the corresponding website. This type of information is out there, and there is really not much you can do about it. However, you CAN minimize the amount of information you reveal as you travel the internet.

Shopping online is the ultimate in convenience. It's also potentially dangerous. Information you give the shopping site could find its way into the wrong hands. Make sure that the checkout page on the site is secure. The URL should begin with https:// and there should be a lock icon displayed somewhere in the browser frame. If you cannot verify the security of a site, DO NOT complete the transaction. It's much too easy for unscrupulous people to monitor unsecured websites and gather the information entered there.

In addition, understand the privacy policy of any site that requests any personal information, even just an email address. Provide information only to sites that promise not to share it without your permission. Avoid giving permission to share your information with "selected partners" or other associates of the site. You will have no control over how the partner sites use your information.

If you want to register with questionable sites, use a "throwaway" email address. That is, sign up for a free account that you use only for these types of sites. And do not give these sites any personally identifiable information.

Give as little information as possible even to legitimate sites. At least once or twice a year, we hear of supposedly secure sites being hacked and personal information possibly being compromised. Hackers don't care about your privacy and are only too happy to sell your information. Don't give them the opportunity.

Don't post too much information on social networking sites, message boards and chat rooms. Yes, Facebook is great for finding old friends and classmates. And chat rooms are meant for sharing. All of this

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