Study used census information for terror profile - The Washington Times: Nation/Politics

Study used census information for terror profile - The Washington Times: Nation/Politics the article talks about NASA using census survey data to mine for terrorist profiles. Many census surveys collect sensitive personal information and people supply this information, I assume, with an understanding that the data will be anonymized. The fact that this data was misused so blatantly is a lot of bad press and an example of bad practices for survey research DESPITE IRB precautions. It is becoming increasingly difficult to conduct quality survey research because of the growing non-response bias. People are simply unwilling to divulge personal information because of the deluge of invasions of privacy from corporate and governmental agents. Yet results from surveys are integral for policy and business decisions. It is inexcusable for NASA to abuse census data so blatantly both from a professional survey researcher and a private individual point of view.