Lexis Nexis database

I recently received a print-out that used my social security number for a search parameter in the database that Lexis Nexis maintains at this site: http://accurint.com. This is a database that subscribers must pay to use. I was irate, angry, and thoroughly peeved to discover that several addresses, my birth date, and my social security number were stored in this database. Since I have made it a practice for the past 20 years to NEVER release any personal information on me or my children, and to NEVER give permission to any person, organization, or other entity to EVER sell, lease, rent, give, or otherwise disseminate personal information on me or my children, I was even more upset. Equally infuriating is that THEY are receiving money for using MY personal information, WITHOUT my consent and/or permission.

Every single time I ever filled out a form for a doctor, placed a mail order, or was required to give out any information like name, address, birth date, ssn, etc. for any reason, I ALWAYS put a disclaimer on the form above my signature that none of that information was to be released unless the holder had my prior, written consent or received a request that was permitted by law. Additionally, I always made a note that ONLY sufficient information for doctors to receive insurance claims was to be released.

I sent a copy of the print-out to the Lexis Privacy Manager and demanded that all my information be removed. Surprise, surprise. They sent back a letter with several forms demanding that *I* give them one of three specific reasons for them to do this, or they would not comply, unless I gave them what they considered a valid reason.

I contend that the information in their possession was not authorized for release by me at any time, especially for use by a paid-only service, and that they have a responsibility to either REMOVE that information as demanded by me, OR pay me for the use of my personal information. I have no responsibility to give them ANY reason to remove MY personal information that they received without my prior, written consent and/or authorization.

Assistance would be greatly appreciated.

Anne Hartley