Final answer:
The increased use of databases has resulted in a significant rise in identity theft, where perpetrators use someone's personal information without consent, leading to financial damage and broader societal issues including national security risks.
Step-by-step explanation:
One of the most serious negative results of the increased use of databases by companies has been an increase in identity theft. As companies store more personal information digitally, the risks of this information being stolen rise significantly. High-profile data breaches at companies like Target and JP Morgan underline just how vulnerable consumers are. The impact of these breaches is profound: individuals face financial theft and a loss of trust in institutions, while society bears the cost of chaos and economic damage.
Identity theft, or 'True-name Fraud', occurs when someone uses another person's personal identification, credit, or account information without permission. This form of theft can lead to drained bank accounts and immense debts incurred by the perpetrator in the victim's name. The more we turn to the internet for social connections, business, and data storage, the greater the risk becomes. A Pew Research Center report highlighted increasing public concern over online privacy, showing a significant rise in worry about personal information available online. This concern reflects the real harm caused by identity theft.
Protecting online privacy and security is a major concern for organizations and individuals alike, as threats to digital information impact not only personal finances but also national security and democratic processes. Conflicts are emerging between the desire for individual privacy and governmental efforts to protect and regulate community safety. These ongoing tensions illustrate the importance of bolstering digital security to prevent identity theft and safeguard personal and national interests.