I would go as far as to say that it is the foundation for nearly every other personal freedom that we hold as dear. In this complex, interconnected, computer age, fragments of our lives circulate throughout a nearly infinite number of databases and computer networks. An electronic record of our purchases, medical and legal history, career experiences, and educational achievements. With the right software tools, access privileges and inclination, an electronic shadow can be created. There are legitimate business uses for this information, but there is also a criminal element that can use the same information to assume ones identity for any number of illegal purposes.
Electronic genealogy is a powerful tool.
This web site is an example. Since the creation of this site, many cousins have discovered more about their roots. It has been used to establish communication between newly connected relatives. And I can speak from personal experience when I say that friendships have been formed. There is a place for this, just be careful who you share information with and have a prior understanding with the person or organization so that it doesn't end up somewhere else.