This past June, we blogged about the website “Get Grandpa’s File,” which is an attempt to aid the masses in requesting documents that the FBI kept about their deceased grandparent(s), through the Freedom of Information Act. Although a useful website for those who are interested in their no longer living grandparent(s) documented activism or tomfoolery, it is not very useful beyond that . . . until now.
“Get Grandpa’s File” has expanded to include a sister site, entitled “Get My FBI File.” This site aids people in requesting documents about themselves held by the CIA, Defense Intelligence Agency, National Security Agency, the Secret Service, and the Army Criminal Investigative Command.
Just like “Get Grandpa’s file,” this new addition aids you in receiving information through the Freedom of Information Act. Although you certainly have the option of requesting documents about yourself through the FOIA office of any government agency that strikes your fancy, “Get My FBI File” claims their “...site is a little easier to use and may be more likely to get the records you seek.”
“Get My FBI File” makes the process easier by using software that allows you to simply fill in a few slots with suggested information. The software subsequently converts that information into a letter addressed to the proper FOIA office. Of course, if you are worried about your privacy, you can choose which slots you want to leave empty. The software will then create a letter with blank spaces available for you to handwrite the rest of the information needed to have a successful FOIA request.
Obviously, you may not receive any information about yourself. Not everyone has a file at the FBI or CIA, but wouldn’t you sleep easier at night if you knew? All it takes is 5 minutes of filling out slots on a website, a photocopy of your driver license, and postage. Who wouldn’t sacrifice 5 minutes of their time and some postage to find out what kind of dirt the government has on them? I know I would.
-- Jake Wiens
I wonder if they have files on bloggers *grin*
The FBI has been to my blog before, and so has the Pentagon and Senatate and the House.
Posted by: Shark Girl | Oct 17, 2007 at 02:47 PM