Donna's
Data
By Donna Gorrell
Is there another you? Are you sure? I think I am the only
one of me, but I'm going to take steps to make sure.
No, I have not gone crazy quite yet. I've just been reading various
email on a digest mailing list that I receive from Illinois. The talk
has been about identity theft. If you think it couldn't possibly happen
to you, think again.
Have you given anyone your social security number lately? Or your mother's
maiden name? Or have you shared genealogical files with someone? If
you answer yes to any of those, you could be in jeopardy—and not
the kind where you must answer in the form of a question.
There are many web sites that deal with genealogical data and many people
are putting their family trees online. There is nothing wrong with this
as long as the info on those family members still alive do not invade
their privacy or give details that could be used to steal their identity.
If the mother's maiden name is given or the social security number is
shown, that person is at risk for theft of identity. Make sure all such
info is deleted before you upload to a web site.
So, you don't do genealogy, and think you are safe. Think again! If
you have been asked for your social security number, either online or
at a local store, you may have contributed to someone's information
bank—and it isn't yours. Your social security number is unique
to you and no one is entitled to obtain that information. Decline if
asked for it. That is your right.
Identity theft is growing and there are many unscrupulous people in
the world who would rather take the easy way to make a living. They
rely on you to work hard and be generous and kind. Those of us who are
honest do not think like the thieves—we answer with the correct
information and give freely of data if we think it might assist someone.
Before you tell the world of your private accounts, the passwords, the
things that you alone should know, think how it could be used. Be stingy
with data even though you know and trust another person. I'm sure all
those who have had their identity stolen wish they could go back in
time and rethink their actions. Sharing information is wonderful, sharing
your identity is something else.
Be yourself but don't let anyone else be you.
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