Old Data - test-drb@ccmp.vtda.org

4 Apr 1998

In a message dated 98-04-04 06:46:33 EST, you write:

<< This struck a chord with me...

...
 protection of data/software contained on the machine or
disks. If you buy a
camcorder at a consignment or pawn shop  and the last owners left a tape of
their after-hours playtime in the camcorder, is it my responsibility to  erase,
...
 safeguard or return it? I think not. I feel the same
should apply to  personal

 ABSOLUTELY it is your responsibility. >>

i'd  be willing to argue this somewhat. as an example, my brother gave me a
complete ps2 model 30 that was literally being thrown in the trash. the
company he worked for was upgrading their computers. when i finally got a hold
of it, i looked at all the data on the machine. i found some personal data
...
 from someone who evidently used it such as resume, job
history, etc in addition to work specific to that company. there was also a few
other programs
on it, such as xtree, wp51, lotus and procomm. as i deleted the data files
keeping the applications, i felt no responsibility to the previous user. it
may not be politically correct, but i will save any applications i find on the
computers i pick up. 

david