The Internet, since its early days, has been largely shaped by the users who determine its function and evolution. While identity protection was not built into the fabric of the Internet, more and more users are seeking to map out the ground rules for privacy.
For example, more Internet users today indicate that they want the ability to limit the "digital footprint" of an identity. This refers to how long sensitive information like names and addresses can be kept and accessed, how many copies of the information exist, who has access to the information and, most important, the rules that must be followed when receiving identity information.
Consumers are beginning to understand that limiting digital copies of their personal information in cyberspace can cut down on possible abuse by fraudsters. Given recent high-profile security incidents, they have reason to be concerned.
