Jerry,

>Slashdot didn't break this story... Microsoft did with their emails. And just because "every body does it" doesn't make it right. It's about time we took our rights back.

True, Slashdot didn't break this story, but they did make it into a bigger deal than it should be (my opinion). Slashdot knows exactly how much power they have to get folks riled up, or make a non-story into a story...

I am not sure what rights you are referring to... It has always been the case that to get something free, you have to make a sacrifice -- clipping coupons, listening to a spiel, giving out private information. These things have always existed. If you don't want the free/optional stuff, then don't register or go elsewhere. It's a free country.

Not to mention, in this case it is _not even necessary_ to give out any personal info. This is totally work-related. Yes, for a private consultant that person would have to give out some information, but only to the extent that the consultant did not distinguish between his or her personal and work life. As a private consultant, would you give out personal information to your clients? Whatever you tell your clients, tell MS.

My point is that you only have to give out what you want. Now, if MS made a requirement of Windows XP that everyone had to register and had to include SSN, date of birth, mom's maiden name, etc. I would start to be worried. But they haven't done that. Passport is their mechanism for authenticating folks for their free (or at least optional) services. My eyes are wide open, but in this case I am yawning.

JoeK