Slashdot Mirror


State Cannot Force Removal of SSNs From Privacy Advocate's Site

jvatcw brings us a story about Betty Ostergren, who operates a website dedicated to pointing out the social security numbers visible in public records. The purpose of the site is to raise awareness of privacy concerns regarding the personal information shared in Virginia's governmental websites. Legislation was introduced in Virginia to combat Ostergren's website, but last Friday a judge shot down the attempt to censor her, writing, "It is difficult to imagine a more archetypal instance of the press informing the public of government operations through government records than Ostergren's posting of public records to demonstrate the lack of care being taken by government to protect the private information of individuals."

1 of 262 comments (clear)

  1. Re:Assume by Archangel+Michael · · Score: 0, Troll

    I usually don't buy new cars. They are a poor investment.

    Last couple of cars I've bought were lease returns, and cost me less than 1/2 the price of a new car. Both were in great condition.

    My ego isn't tied up in "new" things, or other material goods.

    --
    Agent K: A *person* is smart. People are dumb, stupid, panicky animals, and you know it.