David Gerard wrote:
Yes, that's what I mean :-) Basically I have
access because I have
some idea what the IP numbers mean, and Tim thinks I can be trusted
not to reveal data unduly (and I think I can too). As what we're
talking about is really a site maintenance/administration function
(which is OK within the privacy policy), we need people we can trust
that much.
I would like to see any people who have access to this kind of
information, IP addresses and the suchlike, to sign some kind of legal
document saying they cannot reveal this information.
Having a legal document between the Wikimedia Foundation and people
with access to this data would increase people's confidence in the
system, as there would be ways to prevent abuses, and people would be
able to see that this kind of information is safe.
As much as I support the need and importance of protecting personal
privacy, I think that this request is totally unrealistic. People will
respect that privacy because it's the right thing to do, and not because
of some legal document.
Those who want to reveal that information will do it without regard to a
legal document. If they do what do you propose doing about it? Are you
prepared to go halfway around the world to start some dubious lawsuit?
Such a document will only produce an illusion of safety.
Ec