I remember reading an article a while back that highlighted the issue of information security and how it can be circumvented.  In this particular case, it was a NYPD officer abusing his access to department data systems to illegally obtain information about his fellow officers, including his ex-girlfriend.  However, there are many other cases where governments, departments, agencies, and bureaus abuse the power that is entrusted to them by the citizens.  At that point, Constitutional Rights become subject to the whims of unelected and increasingly unaccountable officials.

The point is, there is no such thing as true information security, no matter who has the data.  Even ostensibly trustworthy organizations like police departments can compromised by corrupt officers.  Ditto for credit card companies, banks, insurance companies, hospitals, and others entrusted with your data.  In future posts I’ll discuss steps you can take to address some of these vulnerabilities, for now just know that your data is not as safe as you think it is.

Keep in mind that abuse of power is not a new thing, after all there is nothing new under the sun.