Apparently Passport Canada experienced a security breach in that via a web browser anyone could view details of other passport applicants including their names, social insurance numbers, birthdates, drivers license numbers, home address information, and more. You can read about this breach at exaprotect’s website. I know this does not directly affect United States citizens, but it is a good reminder about how we are losing control of our own protection by continuing to freely give out our Social Security number. Or better said, we are losing control by permitting the government and private industry to utilize our Social Security number as a form of identification. A good example was last week where I was randomly selected for a drug test at work. The drug testers asked me to provide my Social Security number and tried to make me feel at peace by saying, “It’s only for tracking purposes.” I responded with a resounding, “No!” So the drug testers merely crossed out my identification number field and continued with the interview process. I for one will not longer tolerate this without serious contention. I am tired of everything from my bank account to federal taxes, mutual funds, and medical history all being tied to a Social Security number. Why do we continue permitting both federal and state legislators to serve in public office without addressing this problem?