Copying Google Result is Collecting Personal Information

An individual complained that Veterans Affairs improperly collected his personal information by searching for and disclosing a URL linking to a Google group discussion page containing his email address and personal opinions. The OPC found that while the information was publicly available, its collection by Veterans Affairs did not relate directly to an operating program or activity of the institution, violating the Privacy Act. The complaint was well-founded, and Veterans Affairs apologized and deleted the email.

• Whether the collection of a URL linking to publicly available personal information relates directly to an operating program or activity of a federal institution.
• The distinction between the use/disclosure of publicly available information and its collection under the Privacy Act.