Reverse phone number searches have been around for a long time. In fact, for a subscription cost, you can do cell phone numbers, background checks, all sorts of stuff. You can get a reverse phone number from services available on the phone rather than the internet as well. This has been available before the internet. The internet might be faster, but it in no way makes you less safe.

Other than that...

1) most criminals of the predatory sort know their victim
2) if I wanted a map to a stranger's house, I'd look in the phone book
3) if I were just picking out a house with a kid or a young girl, I'd pick a block and sit and watch after school