In our state we have the right to remove SS before sending off to file according to law.  But there are many instances where no one has the right to their own information say in the IRS filing a tax lien against you or the comptroller of public accounts for a state tax lien.  Or even when you have to file a CC copy of your decree with the real property records because other transfer documents were not completed.  Has to be certified and that allows no changes so along with that comes your account numbers, balances, dates of birth, social security numbers and drivers license numbers of debtors and creditors.  It will also include retirement accounts etc.  Clerks were saying well they have the right to remove and all our real property states that at the top but as I just gave you examples, many times you have no control over what the document contains so I don't know what in the heck our Texas legislation thought it was protecting.