The Value of Digital Privacy in an Information Technology Age

List and describe at least three (3) technologies that allow an individual to research citizens’ private data.

The three technologies that allow an individual to research a citizens’ private data includes on-line computer searches, video surveillance and audio surveillance.

Internet computer searches will provide a lot of information on an individual without much effort. I did a search on myself and an abundance of data was returned. I was able to obtain my phone number, every address where I have lived, my age, marital status, the name of my husband and when we were married, court records, places I have worked and titles I have held. All of the information returned is in some type of public record but it is a bit disturbing that it is so easy to access. Two of the sites I used in my research include Zabasearch.com and Pipl.com. (www.websearch.about.com) Both sites asked for a name and location of the individual and both also launch you to other sites to obtain additional information – and for a small fee even more information could be obtained. Both sites are somewhat controversial due to the amount of information that is returned. (www.websearch.about.com) There is no consent required to perform an on-line search and very little, if any, expense involved.

Video surveillance is another form of technology to obtain personal information. There are no federal laws preventing surveillance in either public or private workplace areas. However, some states do prevent surveillance in areas that an employee may expect to be private such as locker rooms or restrooms. (www.videouniversity.com) Most individuals willingly accept video surveillance in places to promote safety and reduce crime such as parking garages, stairwells, tunnels, elevators, etc. Surveillance in other workplace areas is often intimidating and perceived as an invasion of privacy. However, when an employer posts a public notice advising that video surveillance in used all rights to...