Businesses must protect their digital documents from the scrutiny of others whether it’s sensitive information about customers and staff or deals or documents. Even if employees are trained and reliable just one slight mistake to result in an embarrassing data breach that can ruin a company’s reputation. There are four ways to control the use of electronic files and to prevent data breaches.
The Administrative Office of the Courts has asked for comments on four options to address security and privacy concerns in providing remote electronic public access to records of the case. The first option would preserve the presumption of all court records being accessible at the courthouse as electronically, however it would limit remote access only to those who have an actual need, such as a parties, counsels important court personnel and judges.
The other option allows the user to access and download the entire case record in the event of a legitimate need. This includes people who have been found guilty of a crime, and a judge must also approve the request to release information.
The third option gives the general public restricted access to certain documents that are typically found in criminal cases, such as plea agreements, warrants for execution and other documents. It also limits the public’s access to certain identifying information such as Social Security Numbers as well as financial information. It is based on the power of the prosecutor and their counsel to protect their interests in particular cases by filing motions to seal or exclude certain information from electronic access.
