A few years ago, one of my friends told me something odd happened to him.
He Googled some random medical symptom late at night and, within seconds, convinced himself he had a severe disease.
Thankfully, he was fine the next day. But it really got me thinking…
Google is an incredible resource that can answer any question you throw at it.
The right searches can teach you new skills, help you problem-solve, and encourage good habits.
But there’s also a lot of useless (and harmful) information on Google.
Searching the wrong things can lead to unnecessary anxiety, fake news, privacy leaks, and even legal issues.
That’s why I came up with a list of 13 things you should never search on Google.
1. Your Symptoms When You’re Feeling Sick
We’ve all done it. But anytime you search your symptoms online, websites will try to diagnose you with the worst possible scenario.
Instead of researching mild symptoms, you’ll find yourself worried about rare diseases that aren’t even possible.
Researching health symptoms on Google is called cyberchondria. It often creates anxiety instead of offering useful information.
If you’re feeling unwell, it’s better to talk to a medical professional than do a Google search.
Read also: How to Do a Personal Development Plan
2. Personal Information About Yourself
Searching your phone number or address may seem harmless. But if you do it enough, you’ll realize how many places your personal info is available online.
You’ll probably find your personal data on databases and websites you never heard of.
Not only is this creepy, but it can increase privacy risks like identity theft and spam.
After you search for your info, take steps to limit personal data on the internet.
3. Sketchy DIY Medical Advice
The internet loves to push crazy DIY “home treatments” for medical problems.
While some home remedies can be beneficial, others can be harmful or completely worthless.
If you search DIY medical treatment, you may come across dangerous recommendations that make your symptoms worse.
It’s always best to take advice from trained medical professionals instead of an online blog.
Read also: 9 Signs of Self Sabotage Drawing you Back
4. Illegal Downloads or Free Copies of Software
Ever searched for “the official _____ software free download?” If you have, chances are you clicked on a sketchy site.
A lot of websites offer free downloads of software that you normally have to pay for. However, these downloads usually contain malware or viruses.
Not only will this ruin your computer, but it can steal your passwords and private information.
Before you download free software, read reviews to make sure the site isn’t malicious.
5. Illegal Things
This should go without saying, but if you’re searching about how to do something illegal, you’re putting yourself in some shady territory.
Curiosity shouldn’t drive you to look up illegal information, and it can come back to bite you later.
You never know when those search history items could come back to haunt you…
Keep your online searches legal, and you won’t have to worry about running into trouble.
6. Graphic Photos
I know people who look up disgusting bug pictures, violent photos, and other images just out of curiosity.
Please believe me when I say… once you see something like that, you’ll never unsee it.
If you’re searching for graphic content on Google, you’re better off not knowing what you find.
Sometimes it’s better to err on the side of caution and protect your mental health.
7. Things That May Upset Someone Close to You
Curious if your partner is cheating? Thinking of how to stalk someone online?
Trust me… I’ve seen the searches. And they can get really unhealthy really fast.
If you find yourself looking things up to catch someone in your life cheating, ask yourself why. Then Google how to have an open and honest conversation with them.
Your keyboard will never solve a problem like open communication can.
8. Get Rich Quick Schemes From Strangers
“How to make $500 a day from home!”
Sounds too good to be true, right? But if you search “get rich quick” schemes, you’ll find thousands of websites promising you that million-dollar payday.
But a lot of these websites are trying to sell you something or trick you into giving your bank info.
If you want to invest money or grow your wealth, do your research before trusting strangers.
9. Instructions on How to Do Dangerous Stunts
Ever searched how to do one of those YouTube challenges? I have too many times.
I’m not saying all YouTube videos or internet challenges are bad. A lot of them can be harmless.
But if you’re searching how to do something dangerous, it will inspire people to attempt it.
Always think before you act, and consider your personal safety when trying something new.
10. Your Insecurities
Do you search things like “am I ugly” or “why do I always fail”? Search engines love when you feed into your negative thoughts.
Not only will you find tons of pages telling you how awkward you are, but it opens you up to comparing yourself to others.
Comparing yourself to strangers on the internet will always bring you down. Learn how to love yourself instead of validating your fears online.
11. Dangerous Diet Searches
“The 2 Day Keto Diet will change your life.”
Another great example of keyword stuffing search engines to help you lose weight quickly.
Do yourself a favor and avoid any diets that promise drastic results in a short period of time.
Your body needs balanced nutrition, not gross supplements or eating once every 36 hours.
12. Rumors About Other People
Yeah, I searched for stuff about people in high school before too.
The problem? A lot of the information you find will be rumors or things that happened years ago.
If you’re Googling coworkers, classmates, or other acquaintances, you’ll probably dig up some useless gossip.
Leave the rumors to TMZ and focus your energy on something productive.
13. Fearmongering Topics Right Before Bed
Ever research scary news stories or conspiracy theories before bed?
Your brain needs time to unwind before sleep, but Googling crazy topics will stress you out before bed.
Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Part of that is having healthy digital habits.
Know when to take a break from technology and your Google searches will become less stressful.
Conclusion
There’s so much power in knowing how to use Google correctly.
With great power comes great responsibility.
If you spend your time searching meaningless information, you’re wasting Google’s power.
Use these searches to inspire yourself to be healthier, live happier, and seek truthful information online.
Not all searches are created equal. By knowing what not to search for, you can make Google work for you.
Don’t give in to curiosity… be inspired to become a better you.
FAQ
Why shouldn’t you search your symptoms on Google?
Searching symptoms online often leads to worst-case scenarios that increase anxiety. Medical professionals provide far more accurate diagnoses.
Can searching certain things on Google be dangerous?
Yes. Some searches can expose you to scams, malware, misinformation, or disturbing content that may affect your safety or well-being.
Is it bad to search personal information online?
Searching your own information occasionally can show what’s publicly available, but excessive exposure of personal data can create privacy risks.
How can I search safely online?
Use trusted sources, avoid suspicious downloads, protect personal data, and think carefully before clicking unknown links.
What are healthy internet habits?
Healthy habits include limiting harmful content, verifying information, protecting privacy, and balancing screen time with offline activities.
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