So much public record information available - is it too much?

Amazing the number of agencies around that will sell you a mashup report of public information about pretty much anyone you like! Cas in point... Intelius www.intelius.com where you can easily grab a plethora of info including property records, background info, criminal records, phone numbers, SSN records and more... ouch! Of note, if your changing jobs or maybe looking at taking a risky move and joining a startup you might consider running a background check on your soon to be employer or business partner! This could reveal that your "angel" or next "gecko" may have had a couple of bankruptcies in the past or ??? useful stuff... I guess!