GOOGLE PERSONALISES RESULTS

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The internet is becoming good at hiding stuff.

"Call a friend ... and ask them to Google something at the same time as you.

"The results will be different."

(The dangers of the internet: Invisible sieve)

This is because:

When you type in your query, Google takes into account:

Your location.

Your past searches.

Other factors.

(The dangers of the internet: Invisible sieve)

So, you search for "Lockerbie"

Your friend gets information on Gary Lockerbie.

You get information on the Lockerbie Bomb.

Google personalises the results.

How easy is it to find information about 'Venice Florida and 9 11'?

Larry Page, the chief executive of Google, has said: "the ultimate search engine would understand exactly what you mean, and give back exactly what you want." (The dangers of the internet: Invisible sieve)

Or perhaps it gives back what Google allows you to see.

Amazon tries to predict what you will want to read.

Facebook 'updates' you on the friends that Facebook thinks you like best.

Eli Pariser, in The Filter Bubble: What the Internet is Hiding From You, wrote:

"My sense of unease crystallised when I noticed that my conservative friends had disappeared from my Facebook page."

Are all the Turks aware of the significance of their Foreign Minister being close pals with Hilary?

Now, imagine what Google or Facebook could do:

In Thailand, they could promote the views of Mr Thaksin, to certain key people.

In Malaysia, they could promote the views of Mr Anwar, to certain key people.

In the USA, they could promote the views of Mr Ron Paul, only to certain key people.

In India, they could hide David Headley's 'CIA links' from certain key people.

Your past searches are important.

Google will feed you sport, girls or betting, if that is what you want?

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