Florida Private Investigator Practice Exam

Which type of information about Class C, CC, E, or EE licensees is considered confidential?

1. Business address

2. Social security number

3. Residence telephone number and address

4. Employment history

The correct answer is: Residence telephone number and address

The confidential nature of the residence telephone number and address for Class C, CC, E, or EE licensees is rooted in the need to protect personal privacy and security. In the context of private investigation and licensing, such information is sensitive because it can expose individuals to potential risks if it falls into the wrong hands. Surveillance operations or harassment could be facilitated if someone has access to a licensee's home address or phone number. On the other hand, a business address, while it does provide some personal information, is typically considered public as it pertains to the operation of a business entity and is often required to be disclosed for legal and operational transparency. Similarly, social security numbers, although very sensitive, are typically protected under broader privacy laws and regulations beyond the specific context of licensing, which may not classify them as confidential in this particular setting. Employment history usually does not warrant the same level of confidentiality as personal contact information, as it is often a matter of public record or professional disclosure. Thus, the protection of residence telephone numbers and addresses specifically serves a critical function in safeguarding licensees from unwarranted intrusion into their personal lives.