The assault on privacy : computers, data banks, and dossiers

Abstract

Have you ever applied for credit, taken an aptitude test, filled out a government form, or completed a job questionnaire? Then a detailed profile of your financial dealings, friendships, political beliefs, sexual habits, and personality "quirks" may be stored in a computerized dossier - a dossier which is not open to your inspection. ITEM - The Associated Credit Bureaus of America maintains files on approximately one out of every two Americans. ITEM - The Army records information on the lawful political activites of numerous U.S. citizens. ITEM - In one year, the Pacific Telephone and Telegraph Co. monitored 27 million private telephone calls in California. "No people in the world," writes distinguished authority on computers and the law Arthur R. Miller, "are scrutinized, measured, counted, and interrogated by as many poll takers, social science researchers, and government officials as are Americans." Vast quantities of data are indeed necessary to the smooth functioning of a modern society. But vast quantities of data - indiscriminately collected, carelessly verified, and stupidly or malevolently utilized - can destroy the concept and the right of personal privacy as we know it. The Assault on Privacy is a startling and thoroughly documented account of the uses and abuses of the new information technology. Citing many actual cases, Professor Miller surveys the diverse areas in which personal privacy is seriously threatened. He reveals the inadequacy of present laws concerning privacy, and he details the strong steps necessary to ensure protection for every individual. In his authoritative dissection of the computerized assault on privacy, the author provides us with a pioneering work of prime importance.

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