Everyone knows about the omnipresence of camera surveillance but not that the numbers on their personal identification cards leave a trail and tell the story of their earning power, spending habits and life in general. The numbers track people and tell governments and corporations supposedly private information.
Consumer Buying Habits
Most of the uses of the gathered information are comparatively innocent; companies collect it to check consumer buying habits in order to tailor new products and services. Banks assess how people pay bills before advancing loans and governments like to keep tabs on people for tax, security and other purposes. There are some organizations that worry over human rights infringement but most people grumble that the Big Brother trappings are a necessary evil.
Live Off The Radar
The people who are really worried about being watched actively try to live off the radar by refusing to give their personal ID numbers to anyone (www.docdroppers.org). This often leads to their inability to get bank accounts, credit cards or passports. Even those relenting and giving their ID to banks specify that it must not be given to anyone else, including a credit card company. One blogger was chagrined to find the bank did not honor its promise (www.penaltychargesforum.co.uk).
Those who don't want a bank account try not to be paid by check. However, this limits their ability to get well-paid jobs. They use often usurious cash exchanges and pay large administration fees and then worry about walking around with cash stuffed wallets. Of course, they stash cash around their homes and pay cash for everything. The odd person even speculates about starting a bank to take care of his or her own problems!
Very few manage not to have personal ID numbers at all. Usually, they are older and have managed to avoid being labeled. One man lives with a partner who has all the necessary ID. He says the trade off is worth it because he doesn't have to pay taxes.
Element Of Paranoia
Living off the radar is hard work but many have decided it is worth the inconvenience. Perhaps, there is an element of paranoia inherent in their attitude but maybe it is a good thing that they are fighting monoliths such as governments and corporations.
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