Editorial Page Weighs In on Internet Security
by Jeff
News and Record editorial staff urges more government attention.
“And Guilford Register of Deeds Jeff Thigpen leads his counterparts in the state’s other 99 counties in redacting from online documents as much personal information as state law allows.”
“While hazards exist, Thigpen has been a leader in confronting security issues. Now, the state should take the initiative and address those concerns.”
While I appreciate that vote of confidence after a hectic week, more needs to be done and I’m not satisfied. Register of Deeds’ in North Carolina are a vanguard of public records but don’t have the resources and clarity in law to implement additional security protections, identification requirements, etc., in accessing this public information. While there needs to be a balance, it is important to know existing laws create an inherent imbalance toward openness precisely because we are public records offices. My staff and I will continue to address these kinds of issues and concerns with Commissioners and the General Assembly.