To the Editor:

I am compelled to respond to the campaign ad that implies you can use a clerk’s office computer for the purpose of finding Social Security numbers.

In Isle of Wight, as in all clerk’s offices, some documents containing Social Security numbers are available to the public. This is usually a requirement of a lender and used to aid the collection of bad debts. The ad is misleading in that it implies that it is easy to find social security numbers, when, in fact, it can be a difficult process for the uninitiated. Current law allows the clerk to refuse newly submitted documents containing Social Security numbers, and this is our practice; however, the law does not allow old records to be altered.

Trooper Hardison, by his ad, has drawn attention to Social Security numbers, thus inviting persons with criminal intent to go on a fishing expedition in the clerk’s office.

Sharon Jones will use all lawful means to protect your privacy.

Vote for her.

William E. Laine Jr., Clerk

Smithfield