Dave, you raise some very interesting points, and it is sobering to read stories such as the ones you've shared on this forum.  I must ask, though, what is your solution to these issues?  The cork has been removed...how would you propose that we "return the genie to its bottle"?

My point is that we all want to live in a free and open society, but at the same time we want our lives to be completely risk-free.  Thus, we look to the government to guarantee our security.  While I agree that it's not a good idea to have personal information out there where anyone with an internet connection can access it, no amount of regulation or legislation will ever be able to completely protect us.

In short, you, the citizen, are ultimately responsible for your own security.  The best defense is a good offense.  Take the time to do a search on yourself. Find out what's in the public record. Get a copy of your credit report; many companies offer a credit monitoring service for a nominal fee.  Make a practice of inspecting documents that you know will be made public record.  Just as you wouldn't walk through a rough neighborhood flashing a roll of $100 bills, don't make yourself a target for identity thieves.

Vigilence is the answer.  I, for one, refuse to live in fear.

But, that's just me.

Regards,
Scott Perry