Google is an incredibly valuable tool, but there are some words you should never search – and that’s according to the people who’ve searched them.
Google is the most visited website in the world, with more than 106 billion visits in June alone.
And while it’s largely seen as a useful part of everyday life, it can be a pretty harrowing place too.
So, what are these words people should never search for?
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It’s not just individuals who have spoken out about the things you should never Google, either.
A Cybersecurity expert named Ben Van Pelt has spoken to Indy100 about the search engine phrases that could be putting you in danger…
Here are six types of Google searches that Van Pelt warns people to approach with extra care…
1. Customer Service Numbers
Many turn to Google to find customer service contact numbers, but scammers exploit this by placing misleading ads at the top of search results. These ads often lead to fake numbers that mimic legitimate companies.
To avoid falling victim to these scams, Van Pelt advises skipping the ads and going directly to the official website of the company for contact information.
2. Easy Loans
Scammers may promise quick and easy loans, especially targeting those in financial distress.
They often ask for upfront fees and personal information but fail to deliver the promised loan.I
nstead of relying on Google for financial assistance, Van Pelt suggests seeking help from reputable banks and lenders.
3. Quick Money-Making Schemes
Be wary of investment opportunities that promise high returns with little risk, as they are often pyramid schemes in disguise.
Van Pelt recommends consulting reputable investment brokers or financial advisors for genuine investment opportunities.
4. High-Paying Remote Jobs
Avoid searching for ‘high-paying remote jobs’ as scammers often use these ads to lure job seekers into illegal activities or gather personal information.
Stick to well-known job websites and official career pages of reputable companies when searching for employment, advises Van Pelt.
5. Free Credit Report
Scammers may offer free credit reports to steal sensitive information like your date of birth and social security number, putting you at risk of identity theft. While monitoring your credit report is important, avoid searching for ‘free credit report’ online to avoid potential scams.
6. Tech Support Scam
Cybercriminals may set up fake tech support services to trick consumers into installing malware or providing sensitive information.
Van Pelt recommends using official tech support from your device’s manufacturer or software provider to stay safe.
But if cybersecurity isn’t your primary concern, there are still some words that should never be inputted into your Google search bar.
These are the terms you should never look up unless you want to be scarred for life…
Individuals who have encountered seriously unpleasant searches have compiled a list of terms you should avoid Googling.
1. Larvae
One word you should refrain from searching is ‘larvae’.
This caution is due to the possibility of encountering images of oral myiasis, a condition where insect larvae infect the mouth.
Numerous medical cases have reported patients whose mouths have been invaded by these larvae, with one account describing a room filled with a putrid odour of decaying flesh.
2. Degloving
Another term to avoid is ‘degloving’.
This refers to a severe injury where the skin is forcefully removed from the underlying tissue.
A Reddit user shared a story about a summer camp counsellor who would show girls a graphic picture of a degloved finger to emphasise the importance of removing jewellery before participating in activities, resulting in their increased compliance.
3. Krokodil
The term ‘krokodil’ is associated with the opioid drug desomorphine, which, when illicitly produced, can be contaminated with toxic substances.
Injecting this drug can cause severe skin damage, giving individuals a ‘crocodile-like’ appearance.
We won’t delve into that any further for the sake of everyone’s stomach.
4. Fournier
Also, consider sparing a thought for individuals with the surname Fournier.
Unfortunately, their name coincides with a type of bacterial infection called necrotising fasciitis that affects the genital area.
This aggressive and life-threatening condition typically occurs in patients who have experienced local trauma to the perineum or have diabetes mellitus.
While it may be natural for male babies to experience something called ‘penile adhesions’, it is not a cause for significant concern.
However, if parents have worries or questions about it, it is advisable to consult fellow parents, healthcare professionals, or doctors rather than relying on a search engine.
5. Harlequin Icthyosis
Lastly, ‘harlequin ichthyosis’ is a rare genetic skin condition that affects newborns.
It leads to the formation of thick, cracked plates on the skin, requiring intensive care.
In the past, survival rates for babies with this condition were low.
These cautionary examples remind us to exercise discretion and seek appropriate sources of information when faced with sensitive or potentially distressing topics, as relying solely on internet search results may not provide the context or support needed.
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