Vanity search
Alternatively called an ego search, a vanity search is where a user searches for their legal name, username, or online persona on the Internet using search engines or social media platforms. The purpose of a vanity search is to see what information, comments, posts, or mentions are associated with oneself online.
The term first appeared as "egosurfing" when it was used by Sean Carton in a 1995 column for Wired magazine. The term may also be called egogoogling.
Why do people use vanity searches?
People engage in vanity searching for various reasons, including general curiosity. Searching for yourself is a useful tool for online reputation management and ensuring that the information associated with your name accurately reflects your values and opinions.
Businesses utilize this practice to locate and address false, negative, or defamatory information about their company or its products. Vanity searches are also common among public figures, celebrities, and others interested in maintaining a positive online presence.