Individuals at Risk of Information Exposure: What Are Their Digital Vulnerabilities & What To Do About Them?

Individual Online Risk & Digital Vulnerabilities - Hetherington Group

February 14, 20251 min read

High profile individuals face increasing risks online regarding the exposure of their personally identifiable information (PII). C-suite executives, celebrities, and politicians are prime targets for digital threats such as doxing, misinformation, and identity theft. This paper explores how bad actors exploit personally identifiable information (PII) like residential addresses, phone numbers, and social media activity to stalk, impersonate, or harm individuals. With data brokers and public records making this information widely available, the need for proactive digital security measures has never been more critical. 

The paper further examines how various vulnerabilities, including oversharing on social media, data breaches, and business registrations, contribute to an individual’s digital footprint. Cybercriminals leverage open-source intelligence (OSINT) techniques to uncover personal details, leading to threats such as phishing, financial fraud, and even physical danger. Additionally, mismanaged trust and LLC registrations, unintentional exposure via old social media accounts, and publicized travel plans heighten security risks. These vulnerabilities underscore the importance of digital hygiene and strategic information removal. 

Download this research report to learn about methods you can use to reduce your digital footprint and ensure online security and safety for you and your family.   


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