The short answer is yes but there is tremendous volume and finding a specific individual’s comments in that sea of information is no easy task.
Those who wish to remain truly anonymous will use multiple relays through various countries with all kinds of fancy toys (code) to hide their presence. Even then, it is a contest of will and skill.
For someone looking to make their internet footprint as small as possible, start by doing a Google search on your full name. The information available just might surprise you.
I’ve done well.. been on PCs since 1980.. on ‘net’ since 1992 (ftp).. and was on the internet when it was still dial-up (using Netscape)..
Did a check a couple of days ago.. the peoplefinder sites have my name (plus about 60 other people with the same name).. but the listed adress is from more than 15 years ago.
not a single pic..
Of course, I have always been wary of posting any personal info online ;)
I won’t use Google for a search. I use IXQ, they claim to be the world’s most private search engine. Searches all the big ones, but no tracking your IP, and no cookies.
The information available just might surprise you.
Never though too much about this issue until I went on-line several months ago to look for less expensive auto insurance. Didn’t put in any personal info but up popped a Google pic of my car in my driveway with the question, “Is this the car you want to insure?” along with my name, ZIP code and mileage on my car. Discovered the source was likely the State of Texas as I had just gotten my annual safety inspection and auto license.
I can also find out how much my neighbor’s real estate taxes are and whether they are current. It’s scary what is considered public information, let alone private information.