Minnesota tackles data, ID theft issues

Last year more than 3,000 Minnesota residents were victims of identity theft and the growing concern is prompting state leaders to undertake a reform of how confidential and private data is handled and protected. The state is revamping its Data Practices Act and working on mechanisms to limit the use of social security numbers as a personal identifier. Other proposals include stopping the marketing or resale of driver vehicle information and establishing penalties for infractions. Another proposed regulation would make it illegal for unauthorized entities to obtain or sell residents' telecom records.

For more on the state's data protection efforts:
- read this article at Public CIO