Frankly, it doesn't matter to me whether the information is available in
isolated public files. Someone has compiled those isolated files into a
single source making it easier for someone to convince credit granting
institutions, medical records holders, etc. they are me. Also, while
Lexis/Nexis may very well be "careful" about whom they release information
to, there is no reason to believe the information is so guarded once it has
gotten into the hands of the recipient agency.
One only has to look at the fiascos in the last few years with the DOD, LLL,
and other "secure" computer systems to realize the compilation of private
data into these huge databases is a bad idea for the individual.
As with certain other technological feats, just 'cause ya can, don't mean ya
oughta. At least we have a way to opt out of this one. I'd tell them they
can't resell my e-mail address either.
Marcie