Secret Service and Congress Behind ID Photo Sales
Last issue we reported that three state governments -- Florida, South
Carolina, and Colorado --
have contracted to sell a combined total of 22.5 million drivers
license photographs to Image Data LLD, a private anti-fraud company in
New Hampshire. The company said they planned to use the photos to build a
nationwide photographic database, which retail establishments can use to
confirm the identity
of customers who cash checks or use credit cards.
Since then a startling fact has come to light. The Image Data firm received
nearly $1.5 million in start-up funds from the Secret Service. Congressional
leaders who helped arrange the federal grant in 1997 said they envisioned
Image Data's technology being used to combat crimes, including terrorism and
illegal immigration.
Image Data said nothing about the grant, or Secret Service involvement, when
they contracted with the three states to buy the drivers license photos.
The company says they weren't trying to hide the information. They say they
just weren't asked, and saw no reason to bring it up.
(Sources Atlanta Constitution, February 25)
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