A search engine is defined as a program designed to sift through a long list of documents for specified keywords and return with a list and links to those documents containing the aforementioned keywords. Most can be found in simple forms on personal computers as well as on web pages and in Internet database companies. Search engines that specialize in finding people are used to find information (phone numbers, addresses, places of employment) for those who are either unlisted or difficult to contact.

People search engines can be used to answer the simplest questions ("I know I have a second cousin once removed in Massachusetts--how can I find her?") or the most complex ("I've never known my birth parents--how can I tell them I wish to see them?"). Typing in any known data such as last and first names, possible married names, nicknames, last known address, and place of employment can facilitate these personal searches. The search engine will then send out a spider to find all references of these keywords and find any documents that contain one or more references of this information.

Contrary to most fears, because they only search through databases deemed to be within the realm of public record, people search engines are completely legal. They are unable to search through classified, business or government-related databases. These search engines only use the information already accessible by the public at large; their only strength is that they are able to provide conclusive clues to people's whereabouts in a speedy and efficient manner.

Using People Search Engines for Business Purposes

Most companies agree that hiring reliable and trustworthy employees is one of the first steps towards protecting business information and funds. Many businesses use search engines to help their human resources department during the pre-employment screening process. Using a search engine, they can find information to verify drivers license and social security numbers and to reveal any criminal activities originally "left out" on the application form.