FTC: Consumer Privacy Comments Concerning D.I. Investigations--P974806 D.I. Investigations
July 8, 1997 Mr. Robert Pitofsky, Chairman, Federal Trade
Commission Re: Support of Self-Regulation Dear Mr. Chairman, Regarding the Federal Trade Commission's request for comments following the June 10, 1997 hearings, the undersigned is an owner of a private investigation business. Most of my clientele are insurance companies that elicit my expertise in uncovering fraud; therefore, I am a frequent user of both public and non-public records such as credit headers. I support the proposition of self-regulation. The data I access and use in my report(s) has a beneficial use in detecting and proving fraud as well as clearing suspicions. It is extremely important that public and non-public information be made available to support trade and the judicial system. The access of this information assists the average person to defend himself without looking to the government for help. Should further regulation be imposed, it would create such restrictions that it would deter efforts to prevent fraud, find lost persons, and possibly save, lives. We, as individuals and an industry, are required to keep public and non-pubic information confidential, and we must Maintain a high degree of accuracy in our report vehicles. To have, the targets of our investigations able to peruse our inquiries and data, or opt out of databases that arc private and public would be the death of our Industry and freedom. The prevention of wrongdoing and protection from fraud are the real tests of the use of data. Privacy protection can be managed through our industry's self-regulation of uses and distribution. Our industry has stated a willingness and desire to self-regulate, and must have this opportunity. We welcome the government's assistance in enforcing these rules through our efforts and the industry's associations. I ask that you support self regulation and work with the industry to successfully bring about policies and procedures that we call live with in a free society. Respectfully yours, Don K. IngleDon K. Ingle cc: Mr. Martin Frost, Congressman |