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Are National ID Cards a Good Idea?

Posted by ryuzaki0 on from the we-already-have-driver's-licenses-and-passports dept.

Dracophile asks: "The Sydney Morning Herald recently ran a front-page article about a 'smart card' to access government services and that it would double as a national identity card. The article points out that the current Prime Minister of Australia, John Howard, who fiercely opposed from opposition the Australia Card idea in 1985, is now a supporter. The article goes on to say that about 100 nations have some form of ID card. Is your country one of them? What concerns were raised? How were they addressed? Have welfare fraud and other identity-related crimes decreased? Have National ID cards improved or deteriorated conditions where you live?"

4 of 746 comments (clear)

  1. What about drivers licences? by CCFreak2K · · Score: 1, Redundant

    Do these not count as IDs? I think here in California an ID is required.

    --
    "Beware of he who would deny you access to information, for in his heart he dreams himself your master."
    1. Re:What about drivers licences? by JetFox · · Score: 0, Redundant

      They do count as ID. However, it is not required to get a driver's licence. There are still people who do not drive (and others who drive, just never register).

  2. Ummm... by mrhandstand · · Score: 0, Redundant
    NO.

    MmmmKayyy!

    --
    Always value the individual over the system. --Bruce Lee "I don't need a Sig - I have a custom 191" - me
  3. Don't ask stupid questions. by ScrewMaster · · Score: 0, Redundant

    Are National ID Cards a Good Idea?

    No.

    --
    The higher the technology, the sharper that two-edged sword.