State and local GIS agencies have begun looking at privacy policies as well, though many of these efforts are at the very beginning stages. When intelligently used, databases can help people find cures for illness, stem pollution, prevent fraud, and improve business efficiency. Data, however, can be abused. Some abuse is clearly criminal, such as the gang that stole bulk-mailed credit cards and then used a variety of databases to get the information necessary to activate them. What seems to worry people most, however, is when legal uses of data cross the line.
People are also concerned about data accuracy.
The ability to correct credit data has been a concern for some time with old or inaccurate credit information seeming to have a lifts of its own. Although most data errors are unintentional, identity theft is a ballooning problem. Say someone finds your wallet, or picks your name out of the phone book because it is similar to theirs. They gather personal identifying information such as your social security number or driver's license number, then use that information to pass themselves off as you as they commit crimes or run up bills. The resulting credit and employment problems can be a nightmare for the victim.