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The Database Dilemma Essay

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The Database Dilemma Personal privacy today is a controversial and complex topic, which is influenced by a number of factors. There is an integral role that databases play in this highly debated topic. The fact that many people now carry out their transactions electronically is another important factor. There is also pressure on personal privacy for increased national security around the world to combat terrorism. In addition, personal privacy is even threatened by commercial factors and the Internet. Personal information can consist of anything from a home address, telephone number, social security number, income, credit card history, etc, any piece of information that can be tied to a distinct individual. Once personal …show more content…

Databases allow us to easily store and retrieve data in a purely digital format. The strength of this is that large amounts of data can be stored and retrieved with minimal effort on the part of the user. Opposed to manually flipping through files, one can quickly pull up the requested data through a computer program. Many systems that were conventionally paper and file based have been converted to a digital format which are now stored in one or more databases. Databases can be used by businesses for managing accounts, inventory, personnel information, customer information, and any other record keeping needs. Phone companies have extensive databases for keeping track of customer’s calls for monthly statements, likewise with mobile phone companies. Banks transactions are all recorded in databases. The DMV has records of all drivers and motor vehicles. IRS databases contain income related information of everyone in the country. Ultimately, databases are everywhere. One can only wonder how many records relating to you are stored across what is now a forest of databases. The New Consumer During the past decade, we have undergone enormous changes in the way that we conduct business. ATM check cards, credit cards, and preferred customer cards are the most common buying tools today. Check, or debit, cards are ATM cards that function just like cash. Customers can now make payments with their check cards

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