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Archiver > PAWASHIN > 1999-07 > 0932308403


From: "Pat Asher" <>
Subject: Re: [PAWASHIN-L] Censoring LIVING info......
Date: Sun, 18 Jul 1999 10:33:23 -0400


The issue of censoring LIVING info goes beyond upsetting Aunt Tilley or
Cousin George. The ever-increasing problem of credit card and other
financial fraud has it's basis in the availability of personal
identification information. A birth date and Mother's maiden name is about
all you need to get a Social Security Card. With that you can get a
driver's license and start playing with someone's bank accounts. Why should
we make it easier for these crooks and con-men?

A few months ago, as a newbie to internet genealogy, I "shared" my entire
files with others. Imagine my shock when, just a few weeks later, those
files came back to me (notes and all) word for word, from people I didn't
know. It was a very sobering lesson on how quickly information can spread
via the internet.

For my own work, I seldom follow collateral lines past 1850 or so, since
vital records are usually available starting sometime before 1900. Since
realizing I had to be careful about what I shared with others, I find that's
a good cut-off point for shared GEDCOMS. I feel I'm giving them the "hard"
part, old church and land records, probate and other court proceedings, etc.
They can usually obtain information on later generations with relative ease,
and I can always answer specific questions if needed and appropriate.

My two cents worth.......

Pat

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